Homebrew Alignment Jig ....LOL

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Jeepwalker

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Ram Year
2012 Reg Cab, 4x4
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5.7 Hemi
Been some threads about getting the steering wheel straight going down the road. A crooked steering wheel can be a peeve.

Just wanted to toss out out a fugly alignment jig to make tow adjustments, .....or prove a shop's alignment suggestion (note: not selling them, lol). Obviously there's one bar assembly for each side. A guy would be measuring off the machined wheel, not a tire or tread which can be variable. Drop a tape front/back to compare measurements. It might require a test drive or two to ensure a level steering wheel. Yes, it's possible buy alignment jigs, measure off the tread, or let the alignment shop do the work.

Usually the front measurement could be 3/32"- 1/8" less than the rear (measured near the tire -- varies dep. on tire size/vehicle specs).


Alignment Jig_email.jpg

Straight pieces of AL 3/4" sq tube from home center. Dry wood, cut to fit (won't shrink or scratch wheels). The aluminum tube protrudes 1/16" and a piece of 1/8" acrylic strapped over the aluminum adds 'springiness' which holds the wood 'tight' but able to slide blocks to fit different rims. The blocks are tall enough the bar will clear large tires or deeper profile wheels. Final wood filing as needed to get the bar 100% parallel as measured on a known-flat surface. The tires/wheels could be rotated 90° after final measurement (roll vehicle forward) ...and re-measure to ensure rim runs 'true'.

This is for illustration purposes only. Not suggesting anyone adopt or perform tow adjustments. Ovbiously, leave everything to the qualified Pros.....
 
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