Alignment Problem??
Thread Starter
|
New User
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
Alignment Problem??
My 2000 250 SD is hard, very hard, to keep between the lines in a gusty cross wind. I had the alignment checked and very thing was ok. The truck has only 79k miles on the odometer. I put on new Michlin tires and still have the problem. Is this something I'll have to live with?
Thanks
J. Mike
Thanks
J. Mike
Postmaster
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 4,968
Likes: 3
From: So Cal
Big trucks can be pushed more by winds. Also some brands of tires are more "squirmy" than others.
I forget and am no expert on alignment but there is a setting, I think camber, where it can help self center the steering. Do some searching or as someone who actually knows more about alignment than just getting it within spec on the alignment machine.
Also are you doing a 4 wheel alignment. Surprisingly the big pickups actually do benefit from this.
Good Luck,
Jim Henderson
I forget and am no expert on alignment but there is a setting, I think camber, where it can help self center the steering. Do some searching or as someone who actually knows more about alignment than just getting it within spec on the alignment machine.
Also are you doing a 4 wheel alignment. Surprisingly the big pickups actually do benefit from this.
Good Luck,
Jim Henderson
Tuned
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 331
Likes: 3
From: St. Louis, MO
You should first check all steering linkages from the intermediate shaft, steering gear, Pitman arm, drag link, and tie rod. Wheel bearings can also cause loose steering. Check shackle and spring hanger bushings for wear. You didn't say if it is 2x4 or 4x4. Do you have front and rear sway bars? If steering is tight it is likely in your suspension, worn shocks, sloppy leaf springs, etc.
Thread Starter
|
New User
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
alignment problem??
Everything in the linkage is tight. I had only front end alignment. I have four heavy duty shocks. I keep the tires at 50 psi except when hauling the 2,000# camper. The steering centers well from a sharp turn. I'm wondering if the alignment mechanic failed to properly check toe-in.
I have followed other 250 SD's in a cross wind (I live in Oklahoma) and they don't seem to have the problem I have.
Thanks
Mike
I have followed other 250 SD's in a cross wind (I live in Oklahoma) and they don't seem to have the problem I have.
Thanks
Mike
Tuned
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 331
Likes: 3
From: St. Louis, MO
Regardless of whether or not you have 4 wheel drive, you can set the toe yourself. You'll need someone else to help you. Grab a couple of very straight broom handles or yard sticks and a tape measure. Both people have to hold their sticks at the same height, horizontal to the ground across the center of each hub. Use the tape measure to check for differences in length behind and in front of the tires to set the toe even, in or out. Slight toe in is normal.
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
92 Red F150
Clutch, Transmission, Differential, Axle & Transfer Case
2
Mar 19, 2004 09:41 AM
