Four Wheel Alignment Question

[Jace H.]

I want to get the correct four wheel alignment done on my 64. Probably a stupid question but here goes: Does it matter if I have it aligned with 15 x 6 steel wheels or my newly purchased replica direct bolt on knock off wheels which will ultimately go on the car? I don't want to risk any dings to the new wheels.

Thanks

[Michael G.]

Re: Four Wheel Alignment Question

Others will chime in but feel it makes no difference which set of wheels are used during the alignment process.

[Mike L.]

Re: Four Wheel Alignment Question

Someone put 14" rims on my 64 rebuilt complete suspension will need a 4 wheel alingment can I use the radial specs. didn,t mean to jump on your thread Jack but I guess I just did. I,ve read with radial tires the specs are different

[Larry M.]

Re: Four Wheel Alignment Question

I want to get the correct four wheel alignment done on my 64. Probably a stupid question but here goes: Does it matter if I have it aligned with 15 x 6 steel wheels or my newly purchased replica direct bolt on knock off wheels which will ultimately go on the car? I don't want to risk any dings to the new wheels.

Thanks

Jace:

It should not make any difference. However, there is a different spec for bias ply tires than for radial tires. Decide which you want (check archives for additional info on this subject) and bring the desired specs with you to the dealer/mechanic. Also have plenty of spare front and rear shims for him to use. Request a final readout to confirm that you got what you wanted.

If it were me, and I planned to drive on radial tires, I would align to radial specs......and just install the bias tires for shows, etc.

If the car still have original-type (2-hole) shims, be parpared for a lot of complaining and/or a high price ($$$) for the work. To change these shims requires unloading the rear spring each time you make a change. If you converted to the later slotted shims with the cotter pin, your alignment mechanic will be grateful.

Larry

[Timothy B.]

Re: Four Wheel Alignment Question

Other then the toe in being a bit more for bias tires I don't think the caster/camber specs are any different for radial/bias tires. If you are going to the alignment shop, install slotted shims first then if you have to have the original type shim do the change at home and just replace with the same thickness shim.

If you don't unload the spring you will never get the bolt out and even then you will struggle with the strut rod.