Hi all, I usually lurk in the diesel forum but recently bought an '01 Sport trac. Just replaced a tie-rod end on the right side, the alignment is the same as before but now the steering wheel is off some. Not near as easy as my truck for sure. (or is it)
Thanks, Bill

 

Park truck on level ground.

Check that rear wheels are square with truck

Centre steering wheel and lock,

gauge drive side wheel parallel with rear wheel, (adjust tie rod)

adjust passenger side wheel, parrallel to driver side, (tie rod adjustment)

for correct toe in, adjust both TR end equally.

can all be done with string, chalk and tape measure, weight on wheels (not on jacks).

I used a laser last time I did alignment (no scuffing in 80k)..

 

yep, point the steering wheel where you want it at center. look at drivers and passenger tires. where do they point ? Change the tie rod length to get tires pointed with the steering wheel. If you screw the passenger side IN 1 turn, screw the drivers side OUT 1 turn. then retest... this assumes the toe in is already correct.. check with a ruler and straight edge on outside of the tire front and rear (of front tire).

 

Thanks guys, I'll try it tomorrow.