Where to get Wheel Alignment Checked?
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Where to get Wheel Alignment Checked?
I have a 2004 F250 crew cab, short bed with a 6 inch lift. I need to get my wheel alignment checked but am having difficulty finding somewhere to do it. So far I have been to Pepboys, Goodyear, Firestone......they all said the truck is too big for them to do it. None of them could suggest anywhere either!
Anyone got any ideas? I live on the west side of Houston, TX so somewhere not too far from there would be great.
Thanks!
Anyone got any ideas? I live on the west side of Houston, TX so somewhere not too far from there would be great.
Thanks!
Postmaster
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 4,968
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From: So Cal
I had the same problem with my 94 F250. You will have to ask around to see who might do it. Try a tire dealer that doesn't have an alignment shop. They might recommend someone. Some mechanic shops also would know a good alignment shop.
Most dealers I checked did not do 4 wheel alignments which surprisingly you should get for your truck.
Good Luck,
Jim Henderson
Most dealers I checked did not do 4 wheel alignments which surprisingly you should get for your truck.
Good Luck,
Jim Henderson
Mountain Pass
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 203
Likes: 6
From: Port St Lucie, FL
Just went through this with my truck. Finnaly found a offroad truck place that did them. Call around and ask them if they have an extend alignment rack. This from what I hear is what you need to fit our trucks up on the rack. Best up luck to you, I know I got very frustrated after trying about 9 different places.
Rather Be Floatin
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 2,468
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From: Marble Falls, Tx.
usdave, southwest auto in Katy has a rack long enough for our trucks. cost me approx 70.00 for an alimgment. They are on Mason rd.
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Joined: Dec 2005
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From: SW Florida
Originally Posted by jim henderson
I had the same problem with my 94 F250. You will have to ask around to see who might do it. Try a tire dealer that doesn't have an alignment shop. They might recommend someone. Some mechanic shops also would know a good alignment shop.
Most dealers I checked did not do 4 wheel alignments which surprisingly you should get for your truck.
Good Luck,
Jim Henderson
Most dealers I checked did not do 4 wheel alignments which surprisingly you should get for your truck.
Good Luck,
Jim Henderson
While we are on the subject, how often does everyone have there's checked? The alignement seems to be staying true on my truck (tracks straight, even tire wear) and I've had it over a year. By way of comparison my Impala SS needs an alignment every 6mos.
Thanks
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From: Long Island USA
Originally Posted by BCatlin
I never realized that a 4 wheel alignment was required. I was always under the impression that it was only for front-wheel drive vehicles. What is the reason for the 4-wheel alignment?
On the odd chance that the rear (or front) axle housing is bent, you'll find out too. It can't be fixed without major surgery or replacement, but you'll find out ...
Originally Posted by BCatlin
While we are on the subject, how often does everyone have there's checked? The alignement seems to be staying true on my truck (tracks straight, even tire wear) and I've had it over a year. By way of comparison my Impala SS needs an alignment every 6mos.
That Impala, it's a newer front-wheel drive? Anything FWD from GM needs an alignment regularly. Usually...
BUT - you can get away with just a front-end alignment, just to make sure the front-end is OK.
Freshman User
Joined: Dec 2005
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From: SW Florida
Originally Posted by krewat
It's always good to get the thrust-line checked. Which is whether or not the front and rear axles are exactly parallel. And perfectly centered - in relation to each other.
On the odd chance that the rear (or front) axle housing is bent, you'll find out too. It can't be fixed without major surgery or replacement, but you'll find out ...
When it doesn't track straight. Or the tires wear funny. Or it wanders on the highway. You get the idea ...
That Impala, it's a newer front-wheel drive? Anything FWD from GM needs an alignment regularly. Usually...
BUT - you can get away with just a front-end alignment, just to make sure the front-end is OK.
On the odd chance that the rear (or front) axle housing is bent, you'll find out too. It can't be fixed without major surgery or replacement, but you'll find out ...
When it doesn't track straight. Or the tires wear funny. Or it wanders on the highway. You get the idea ...
That Impala, it's a newer front-wheel drive? Anything FWD from GM needs an alignment regularly. Usually...
BUT - you can get away with just a front-end alignment, just to make sure the front-end is OK.
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Thanks for all the info everyone! Finally got it done at Lone Star Auto (Fry Rd @ Franz for anyone in the area). Cost me $87 and they did a great job.
It was my 'toe' that was out (hence the hideous vibration at 45mph and uneven tire wear). Note that on the alignment machine it actually showed as being in the 'green' zone (supposedly OK) but it was almost on the edge of the green. The guy got it centred and it has made an amazing difference - not only is the vibration gone at 45mph but it is generally a much smoother ride.
It was my 'toe' that was out (hence the hideous vibration at 45mph and uneven tire wear). Note that on the alignment machine it actually showed as being in the 'green' zone (supposedly OK) but it was almost on the edge of the green. The guy got it centred and it has made an amazing difference - not only is the vibration gone at 45mph but it is generally a much smoother ride.