How to Perform a Front End Alignment Yourself - Easy and Free

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  • Опубликовано: 15 июл 2024
  • Here is a quick video on how you can adjust your front wheel toe alignment yourself and save a bunch of money. You should always do an alignment after you replace any of your steering components, inner or outer tie rods, rack n pinion etc but if all you need to adjust is the toe on your front wheel here is how you can perform the procedure yourself with very little effort.
    Please Consider Supporting My Channel at : / rnwyou may also find these other video's helpful:
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    Disclaimer:
    Due to factors beyond the control of Ratchetsand Wrenches, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information, or improper use of this information. Ratchetsand Wrenches assumes no liability for any property or personal damage that may arise from doing a repair on your vehicle after watching any of my repair video's. Due to factors beyond the control of Ratchetsand Wrenches, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Again Any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not Ratchetsand Wrenches.
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Комментарии • 2,7 тыс.

  • @GaryKetchum808
    @GaryKetchum808 6 лет назад +1445

    Fix a mans alignment, and he’ll he driving straight for a year. Teach a man to align, and he’ll be driving straight forever. Thanks for the vid, you got a new subscriber.

    • @ironfistarrival
      @ironfistarrival 4 года назад +1

      Why not babe ?

    • @jonathonvince3605
      @jonathonvince3605 4 года назад +4

      @_____ 😭🤣🤣🤣🤣

    • @Epck
      @Epck 4 года назад +5

      @@ironfistarrival bc teach someone this and they will put their toe out for drifts

    •  3 года назад +2

      this is 2020, not everyone is straight anymore

    • @GaryKetchum808
      @GaryKetchum808 3 года назад

      Stella smith they should be, lets overpopulate epic style

  • @killersmith92
    @killersmith92 6 лет назад +529

    For anyone attempting this one thing to point out is when you make these measurements and adjustments. make sure the car is 100% on the ground with something under the wheels that will allow them to pivot. Also when you set the car on the ground make sure to give the car a few good shakes on each corner to make sure the suspension has settled. There's a reason alignments are done on a 4 post alignment lift that you drive up onto and not a 2 post lift where the tires leave the ground. The reason for this is the cars suspension geometry is totally different from when it's sitting on the ground compared to when it's lifted off the ground and all the suspension components are stretched out. Aligning the vehicle with the wheels off the ground can and more than likely will throw off your alignment. Im not saying the method in this video can't be used because it definitely can, it won't be as 100 percent accurate as an alignment system but it will work to get you by, you just have to make sure that all four wheels are touching the ground and the cars suspension is settled 100%. The reason I know this is im a ASE Certified Auto Technician. Good luck to anyone doing this method and take your time recording measurements and making adjustments, don't rush along.

    • @zandizarandi
      @zandizarandi 2 года назад +17

      good looking out mr smith your wisdom is greatly appreciated. im pretty sure this young man has learned his lesson at this point and make some good cash in the process :)

    • @derekmedina6475
      @derekmedina6475 2 года назад +9

      He says in the video if you place a jack under the suspension it compensates for it being in the air. Is the true? Just want to make sure before I begin

    • @haloba5843
      @haloba5843 2 года назад +3

      @@derekmedina6475 yeah if you jack up the suspension on both sides

    • @MINIPOTHOLES
      @MINIPOTHOLES 2 года назад +6

      The way I’m thinking of it is you can do it in the air like this for easier adjustments, not having to raise and lower it so many times. Once it’s in spec in the air drop it have it settled then do the same process again but on the ground and it should only take a few adjustments to be “spot on” no?

    • @DJJamOfThaDose
      @DJJamOfThaDose 2 года назад +2

      Cool method being used, 100% for sure you need to keep that on the ground while adjusting, so the weight of the car doesn't offset toe once you put it back on the ground.

  • @M9BYaBish007
    @M9BYaBish007 5 лет назад +2513

    “And we’re running a red light... but that’s ok we are making a very important video” 🤣🤣🤣

    • @jeremyshephard286
      @jeremyshephard286 4 года назад +80

      Now I know what to say in court after running a red light. Hopefully No accidents tho

    • @jayfizzle5721
      @jayfizzle5721 4 года назад +14

      Lmao

    • @fsalcedo9
      @fsalcedo9 4 года назад +3

      🤦‍♂️

    • @shanec4441
      @shanec4441 4 года назад +6

      😂😂

    • @Razor20131
      @Razor20131 4 года назад +15

      Thanks 😊 important video so ok to run a red light 🤣🤣🤣🤣

  • @peterkleiner9114
    @peterkleiner9114 4 года назад +266

    It's a good thing I was sitting down while watching this video, because I nearly fainted when I saw how easy it is. The more videos I watch on auto repair, the dumber I feel for having spent so much money with mechanics. Thanks (6 years later) for this video, sir!

    • @Aeneas137
      @Aeneas137 2 года назад +24

      this is not precise enough for long distance tire wear this is only for a rough estimate of alignment.

    • @JoseDiaz-rd9fh
      @JoseDiaz-rd9fh 2 года назад

      The thing of it is there's definitely a learning curve but the longer it take to start the longer it will take you to become proficient

    • @bugzysegal3172
      @bugzysegal3172 2 года назад +17

      Atleast I'm not by myself. My son & myself changed rods, sleeves, headers, cam.... everything! On a Silverado 5.3 LS swap... 700hp gang. All by watching RUclips.

    • @investandcyclecheap4890
      @investandcyclecheap4890 2 года назад +1

      Couldn't agree more Peter

    • @jdsguam
      @jdsguam 2 года назад +13

      Yea... no kidding. I'm 67 yrs old now. If RUclips existed when I was younger, I would have saved thousands of dollars and retired even earlier!

  • @JM-wb8xs
    @JM-wb8xs 4 года назад +93

    went to three shops and no one would fix my alignment. "We are just to busy." Went to a fourth and they made me an appointment. Showed up for the appointment and they said they couldn't do it, could they give me another appointment two days later. Walked out and searched for a DIY and found this one. Went home and did it myself. Thanks a lot. Subbed and liked.

    • @panzerwaffen2873
      @panzerwaffen2873 3 года назад

      Where do you live

    • @GMoney-B
      @GMoney-B 3 года назад +1

      How did your alignment turn out?

    • @richardfry6527
      @richardfry6527 3 года назад

      Did it work is the question?

    • @ericblaine2791
      @ericblaine2791 3 года назад +2

      So you lied and then lied and lied more. Idk where u live but if you took to a shop that couldn't do for this or that aka lack of experience they would have told you a place that could more than likely. Plus if you went home and did this you did have an alignment. This dude doesn't know shit about alignments. First get the rear inspects you can't use a string to set front toe if rear toe and camber is out

    • @LiLxReAPeR101
      @LiLxReAPeR101 2 года назад

      Death is coming

  • @samsen3965
    @samsen3965 Год назад +47

    This was uploaded 8 years back and has to be solid so still here. You potentially have saved me $200! Thanks.

  • @spamwagon
    @spamwagon 3 года назад +92

    A quick note... if you need to turn the tie rod more than about 1/4-turn, it's a good idea to loosen the clamp on the boot so the tie rod can spin without twisting the boot. Just remember to re-tighten it when you're done.

    • @David_Michael_Perez
      @David_Michael_Perez 28 дней назад

      What is the clamp on the boot? And what’s the boot?

    • @spamwagon
      @spamwagon 28 дней назад

      @@David_Michael_Perez The rubber dust boot.

    • @nunyabuziness8421
      @nunyabuziness8421 6 дней назад

      They are crimp clamps you can't loosen them😂

  • @dialaprohq
    @dialaprohq Месяц назад +3

    Dude, I liked a lot of what you taught me, but the ending made me love the video. Mustang Life!!!!

  • @unlimitedbattery
    @unlimitedbattery 7 лет назад +953

    You are cool because you use tools that WE can afford and you use techniques that WE the people can easily do.

    • @anunentitledmotivatedmille7731
      @anunentitledmotivatedmille7731 7 лет назад +53

      Mechanics are people they just have nice tools

    • @tuanngnt
      @tuanngnt 6 лет назад +4

      All you need a wrench set. A wrench set is less than $10 on HBF.

    • @samhersir
      @samhersir 5 лет назад +9

      If you think you will be able to do this, get your head out of your ass.

    • @waterproofroberts2228
      @waterproofroberts2228 5 лет назад

      Lol all good

    • @istherehelp58
      @istherehelp58 5 лет назад +8

      Sugarsmaxx thnx for the encouragement

  • @myRatchets
    @myRatchets  8 лет назад +1502

    I am glad everyone liked the red light comment, didn't think it was gona be that funny when I made it.. lol.

    • @maxmeranda
      @maxmeranda 8 лет назад +7

      +RatchetsAnd Wrenches Red light; important video. Both true!

    • @SI0AX
      @SI0AX 8 лет назад +5

      +maxmeranda I saw that light turn yellow and I'm my head I was like:
      "RUN THE LIGHT! DO IT!!!" *runs red light* "YES!!! :D"

    • @SI0AX
      @SI0AX 8 лет назад

      *****
      I always try to put my foot down when the light turns yellow. If it's too far, then I don't even bother.
      Sometimes I know when a light is about to turn yellow and put my foot down before.

    • @thomascommon7821
      @thomascommon7821 8 лет назад +4

      +RatchetsAnd Wrenches it was a late amber, you're good :)

    • @algol291
      @algol291 8 лет назад

      +RatchetsAnd Wrenches this is helpful, but how do you know that the line you used is level with the wheel well?

  • @GOLDHAWK360
    @GOLDHAWK360 3 года назад +163

    Cracked me up that there was 5 seconds of driving and he broke a law😂😂

    • @joeidaho5938
      @joeidaho5938 2 года назад +1

      DIdn't actually break a law, as he was in the intersection before it turned red. He was just joking, in the end.

    • @craigslaunwhite579
      @craigslaunwhite579 2 года назад

      Actually two law. Distracted driving. Electronics usage

    • @joeidaho5938
      @joeidaho5938 2 года назад

      @@craigslaunwhite579 Does it really matter?

  • @aliennotion2876
    @aliennotion2876 4 года назад +353

    That's the thinnest rope I've ever seen, I think you're just stringing me along.

  • @hudsonite1
    @hudsonite1 6 лет назад +76

    Great tutorial. Just performed my own alignment after replacing tie rods, runs smooth and straight as an arrow. I recently had a professional alignment, so what I did was to measure the distance before I removed my old tie rods and then aligned the new tie rods/wheels to my original distance. Also, I used folding chairs and tied the string on the same height on each of the chairs to ensure the string crossing the same part of the wheel on front and back. Worked perfectly! You saved me $100 from having to go in again.

  • @Skrapeg0at
    @Skrapeg0at 8 лет назад +1792

    The next time I get pulled over for running a red light...
    "It's okay, officer. I was filming very important videos."

  • @michaelbroadbent8718
    @michaelbroadbent8718 2 года назад +13

    Honestly one of the most clear and simple videos I've seen for explaining it thank you

  • @majork4114
    @majork4114 5 лет назад +10

    Dude thank you for this video. So helpful. I woulda never thought you could do this. In the back of my mind I always think alignments are something you will have to have a shop do no matter what. Thanks again brotha 👊

  • @jojomama4787
    @jojomama4787 7 лет назад +17

    this guy comes across as a very honest man, it's becoming one of my favorite channels

  • @mingosmoreira
    @mingosmoreira 8 лет назад +10

    just logged in to say this was the best video about getting your wheels aligned at home. I'm changing my tie rods, so need to get this right, no need to pay $50 for an alignment.

    • @NateN8Nayt
      @NateN8Nayt 8 лет назад

      Why even watch a video like this if you're just gonna take it to a mechanic?

    • @mingosmoreira
      @mingosmoreira 8 лет назад +1

      Steve Vento
      The tie rods cost me $30 and it took me 10 minutes to install them. To align the car it took me 20 minutes. And the car is just fine (passed inspection).)
      So for $30 and half an hour of work I got the job done. The mechanic wanted $150 for everything.
      Now do the math.

    • @mingosmoreira
      @mingosmoreira 8 лет назад

      Nathan Oliver
      True. This is for diyers or people that need to do an alignment at home, or even for "emergencies" for instance if you changed your inner tie rods, or struts at home. Then, if you want, you can take the car to the mechanic.

    • @ericscaillet2232
      @ericscaillet2232 5 лет назад

      @@mingosmoreira yes but if your settings are slightly off tyres are expensive.

  • @tastethyboot
    @tastethyboot 4 года назад +5

    Brilliant, thank you. I am a fabricator and mason line once again has proven to be one of the most versatile/useful tools in my toolbox!!

  • @drsnowmon
    @drsnowmon 3 года назад +7

    Love how he teaches you the fundamentals and detailed explanations on why he does the things he does in his video

  • @nenecmd
    @nenecmd 9 лет назад +537

    he said we running red lights, but we're ok we doing very important videos LOL NICE...

    • @Ford0815
      @Ford0815 9 лет назад +22

      That was the best part !

    • @ausamo2000
      @ausamo2000 9 лет назад +8

      Sam Duran that shit made me laugh hella hard haha

    • @ns671fr
      @ns671fr 8 лет назад +1

      +Sam Duran F-YEA

    • @YachtLife
      @YachtLife 8 лет назад +1

      +Sam Duran best part ever...

    • @RickPreciado
      @RickPreciado 7 лет назад

      Sam Duran 😂

  • @YouCantSawSawdust
    @YouCantSawSawdust 9 лет назад +40

    A few things here that I need to mention.Do not adjust your toe-in with the front of the vehicle off the ground like R&W did in this demonstration.Your vehicle may be susceptible to "bump steer".This is a change of toe-in/toe-out as the suspension moves from full droop to full compression,due to differences in the arcs of the tie rod and the lower control arm.
    When you adjust the toe with the vehicle on the ground,use turn plates under the tire or something to break the friction between the tire and the ground,as you may get a false toe reading due to a slight tire slip angle through the tread.That is,the rubber is twisting.
    When centering the steering wheel,if the vehicle has power steering,start it up,center the steering wheel,then switch it off.This equalizes the pressure in the steering rack/box.

    • @gstree
      @gstree 9 лет назад +4

      jimmy mushman I was watching this video and fully understand steering as I have been a car mechanic for 50 years, I looked down the comments to find what you said, otherwise I was going to say exactly the same thing ! also a lot of cars do have adjustable rear tracking.

    • @alonzokincaid1362
      @alonzokincaid1362 7 лет назад +7

      gstree iv been a mechanic for over seventy five years (im 95) and i agree.

    • @raczyk
      @raczyk 7 лет назад +2

      why can't one just do what's done in the video then lower the car and remeasure? If it's off jack up the car once again and adjust. Keep doing this till measurement is correct when car is on the ground? Also how does one adjust camber?

    • @joeturtleneck2300
      @joeturtleneck2300 2 года назад +1

      @@raczyk bc it will never be right if you jack it up. think about it...your tires sit differently with fhe weight pushing your suspension out

  • @57monoshock
    @57monoshock 2 года назад +2

    I've been doing this for years. Works. Make sure the tie rod ends do not have any play or you wasting your time.

  • @muraliparameswaran4182
    @muraliparameswaran4182 3 года назад +2

    Thanks sir for a wonderful presentation with no unnecessary gimmicks and silly jokes only straight to the point. I have seen a lot of presentations on wheel alignments all of them were not very clear but the moment I checked your presentation I have now thoroughly understood the process. Thanks a lot 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏

  • @petcatznz
    @petcatznz 8 лет назад +196

    Not shown in the video. Use a second wrench (spanner) to hold the tie rod (track rod) end when tightening the lock nut. Tightening against the tie rod ball joint may damage the joint, plus the lock nut may remain insufficiently tightened. The tie rod end normally has flats provided for this purpose, as can be seen in the video. This method also allows the ball joint to be held level when tightening the lock nut. Hope this helps.

    • @-sb33-33
      @-sb33-33 7 лет назад +15

      petcatznz first bit of constuctive feedback ive seen on this vid. everyone else is just complaining that this method isnt the most accurate

    • @johnjones4096
      @johnjones4096 6 лет назад +5

      petcatznz I was thinking the exact same thing. You'll turn everything if you don't hold the inner tie rod with a wrench. If you noticed, he never took his hands off the wheel when test driving afterwards...

    • @gabrielbaum9660
      @gabrielbaum9660 5 лет назад

      Yeahhhh man 👍👍👍

    • @sandyshoremann7524
      @sandyshoremann7524 3 года назад

      Tienes mucha razon or as the old white yippies say: correctomundo! -Sandy

  • @mr.moreno4663
    @mr.moreno4663 2 года назад +3

    Hey man I just wanted to say that's probably one of the easiest explained videos I've seen in a long time I've had a lot of problems with my alignment just want to let you know I appreciate it thank you

  • @antoniomelendez3919
    @antoniomelendez3919 5 лет назад +4

    You are the first one that wasn’t click bait to sell some alignment tool lol thanks again 😀👍🙏🏻

  • @goodnightfamily7746
    @goodnightfamily7746 4 года назад +7

    I had no idea it was that easy I love it when people like you make videos like this it helps people learn to fix their vehicles themselves and save a ton of money thanks for posting this video

  • @tteuvky
    @tteuvky 7 лет назад +354

    6:11 we are running red lights it s ok because we are doing very important video... lol

  • @JohnDoe-zg6fq
    @JohnDoe-zg6fq 7 лет назад +8

    I just did it by eye and I'm happy with the results.

  • @bencrosbie
    @bencrosbie 3 года назад +1

    The perfect video I was looking for when I lack alignment tools. Cant wait to try the string method 👌🏼

  • @lortega5537
    @lortega5537 3 года назад +3

    Awesome video! I just changed an inner and outer tie rod. I'm doing this tomorrow. Thank you.

  • @rangersammy
    @rangersammy 8 лет назад +8

    thanks for the video. that tip about turning the wheels in 1/8" was perfect. I had them both straight and took it for a drive and just as you said, the wheels wandered. Went back and fixed it right up.

    • @sidvis7235
      @sidvis7235 5 лет назад +1

      front wheel drive should toe out, rear wheel drive should toe in.

  • @donaldwigglesworth5885
    @donaldwigglesworth5885 6 лет назад +10

    I have to give you props for some serious skill! I consider myself somewhat mechanically inclined but never considered a DIY alignment, well done!

  • @RicardoVargas-dy9tf
    @RicardoVargas-dy9tf 5 лет назад +1

    Awesome video. I've heard about this method before but wanted to see how it was performed and find it much simpler than I'd imagine

  • @kvasir40
    @kvasir40 Месяц назад

    Thank you so much for sharing this great video. I replaced the rack and pinion on a GMC Yukon, and in spite of all efforts, the alignment was affected badly. Since it was the weekend, I resorted to try to find a temporary solution here, and found your video. Followed step-by-step and I was able to align it. That was fantastic.

  • @pyozoa
    @pyozoa 5 лет назад +5

    Watching in 2019 and its a great help. Thanks for making this video!

  • @MrL0C07
    @MrL0C07 9 лет назад +7

    Thanks for this video !! I saved a lot of money just watching your videos. I started following you a couple weeks ago and it was the best thing I have done . Great job and very clear explanations . Continue please . Cheers !!!

    • @myRatchets
      @myRatchets  9 лет назад +1

      Richard Hornos Very happy to hear the video's have saved you money! I shall continue :) cheers

  • @DavidThompson-dr9mb
    @DavidThompson-dr9mb 4 года назад

    Loved the last comment about running red lights cos "we're doing something important"! Cracked me up! Cheers from Brisbane Australia

  • @franklee4667
    @franklee4667 5 лет назад +1

    u give some of the best point blank explanation walk thru's .. thanks man

  • @Dloweification
    @Dloweification 7 лет назад +485

    So, if my tires aren't aligned I can''t run red lights? Dammit.

    • @alexmexqt14
      @alexmexqt14 6 лет назад +3

      Dloweification 😂😂😂😂😂😂

    • @bichitoarroyor8726
      @bichitoarroyor8726 5 лет назад +1

      No you can't.
      Got it have aligment first

    • @ESport211
      @ESport211 5 лет назад

      You probably run red lights anyways 😆

    • @trvman1
      @trvman1 5 лет назад

      I'll just spend the 50 bucks and have someone do it. Then it is done right and if a problem, I take it back.

    • @williamhudson2815
      @williamhudson2815 4 года назад

      You also need to check your rotors they could be slightly bent enough to make your steering wheel shake.

  • @codynicholson8999
    @codynicholson8999 5 лет назад +61

    "An we're running a red light, but it's ok cause we're making very important videos." I'm subscribing just for that, youtube gold. 😂😂👏👏
    An also thanks for the video, it helped me alot.

  • @MorrowSind
    @MorrowSind 5 лет назад

    This is another under-rated channel.
    Glad I found it!
    Great content; Keep it coming.

  • @qpwodkgh2010
    @qpwodkgh2010 4 года назад +1

    Straight, detailed, not overly wordy. Bravo! You got a new subscriber. Oh, and watch those red lights. It was yellow as you hit the line. You're good.

  • @EngineeringNS
    @EngineeringNS 7 лет назад +165

    I left a like just because you ran a light in the video.

    • @seanmathias7569
      @seanmathias7569 7 лет назад +3

      Engineering Nonsense same lol

    • @celestinnt
      @celestinnt 5 лет назад

      🤣🤣🤣🤣 i left a comment because this comment is also funny 🤣

  • @00700556
    @00700556 9 лет назад +114

    ANNNNND we're running red lights BUT ITS OK because we're shooting videos. lmao

    • @myRatchets
      @myRatchets  9 лет назад +3

      00700556 :-)

    • @302efi
      @302efi 9 лет назад +6

      RatchetsAnd Wrenches That qoute just gained you a sub :D

    • @hubbadubchub
      @hubbadubchub 9 лет назад +2

      RatchetsAnd Wrenches I think that was the funniest thing I've ever seen on a diy video. Hahaha

  • @thraciuspratt4915
    @thraciuspratt4915 2 года назад

    Great video. Clear and concise presentation. Good camera work. Clear images. Love it. Thank you.

  • @twoworlds1322
    @twoworlds1322 3 года назад

    Thanks man I really appreciate this video as it is going to save me a lot of money on taking it somewhere to get it done. your videos are very helpful to someone like myself who needs to save money

  • @ravsinghrajput2105
    @ravsinghrajput2105 3 года назад +71

    In the court, "your honor, I ran the light because I was making a important video, therefore *I'm not guilty* "
    The judge: case dismissed
    Me: W*TF

    • @joeidaho5938
      @joeidaho5938 2 года назад

      In the end, he didn't actually run a red. It was still yellow when he got into the intersection.

  • @RobertSmith-vh4ys
    @RobertSmith-vh4ys 8 лет назад +239

    lol running red lights to make important videos that made my day

  • @WayTruthLife2100
    @WayTruthLife2100 5 лет назад +1

    dude! you rock! We really appreciate you making this video and including great detail. you just saved us $80.
    Share the love man!

  • @wildwood1247
    @wildwood1247 5 лет назад

    I learned this about a yr ago from watching RUclips , good knowledge my friend thanks for sharing 😉

  • @DANIELSOADSK8
    @DANIELSOADSK8 6 лет назад +3

    For anyone trying to do front toe adjustments at home I would recommend going to harbor freight and getting a set of their professional long pattern metric wrenches.It comes with all the common adjusting lock nut sizes even the 24mm and 26mm, also the long 21mm is perfect for control arm camber bolts.

  • @joshpietro5790
    @joshpietro5790 7 лет назад +58

    And on next week's video "how to fix a fender after running red-lights" lmao...... great video and hilarious ending

  • @degutony
    @degutony 3 года назад +2

    Just used this guide, worked great!. Both wheels were found to be out of alignment. After adjustment car drives straight again. cheers.

  • @SVMSICE
    @SVMSICE 8 месяцев назад

    I watched a few of these videos. Yours was the best!! You got to the point quickly and everything was explained well! Much appreciated!

  • @bjmccoy5638
    @bjmccoy5638 5 лет назад +17

    6:06 omg your funny bro. Thanks for the vid. I'm mechanically inclind. I just never done a front in alinement.

  • @Kay-dx8vm
    @Kay-dx8vm 6 лет назад +10

    Thank you for sharing this video, man. I agree that letting a pro do this job would give you the best alignment, but if you do it carefully, I believe you can get it roughly perfect as well. I would not have to pay $100 alignment if I had seen this video 2 weeks sooner.

  • @doublemanson
    @doublemanson 2 года назад +1

    🔴 thank you, you just saved me $98. i had to buy a vice grip for $21 but i always needed one

  • @jacklabloom635
    @jacklabloom635 5 лет назад

    I had no idea it was that easy to align the front wheels. Great video.

  • @Toastmaster_5000
    @Toastmaster_5000 8 лет назад +73

    people seem to really be over-reacting about this... yes, it's not the most perfect solution. But it is better than nothing and if you're on a budget I see no problem with this. Professional alignments aren't exactly cheap.

    • @dntlss
      @dntlss 8 лет назад +16

      +Peter Schmidt Oh thats usually those people that drive a 70 thousand dollar car and pay someone to check their oil level when its low that usually put videos down like this not realizing that back in the day when we had no machines this is how it was done,its simple math and checks,i have a brother thats a engineer and he would have a coronary if he saw a video like this ,lol, i have done this before but i do like to take it to the tire shop just so they can recheck my work but if i was broke at that time i wouldn't have a issue driving it as is

    • @l2ikardo
      @l2ikardo 8 лет назад +8

      alignments made for the racetrack are done with this method becuase its more accurate. machines need calibrations

    • @dandiart5383
      @dandiart5383 8 лет назад

      +half burrito bullshit...machines don't need calibration......it's like saying gravity need calibration...

    • @p420relly
      @p420relly 8 лет назад +24

      +Dan dd Actually, lots of machines need calibration done routinely. Anybody who has used industrial shipping scales for freight know they need calibration.

    • @dannyscarpati7049
      @dannyscarpati7049 8 лет назад +8

      +Dan dd bull shit!!!!! i have my alignment machine calibrated once a year

  • @marinhandymen6567
    @marinhandymen6567 8 лет назад +8

    I like the video.
    My only tips would be to:
    1. Put front wheels on the ground--use something like baking tins, leafs, dirt, to reduce friction, when measuring for toe.
    2. When you get the steering wheel centered, but books between the steering wheel and the seat. You don't want it to move. I am going to use a rope, and lash the steering wheel to the rear view mirror.
    3. A shop manual helps too. If you have the time/patience, and know caster/camber/toe you can get a pretty good alignment. If insure about caster/camber leave those adjustments alone, and just concentrate on Toe.

    • @greggzavorotny7872
      @greggzavorotny7872 6 лет назад +1

      i use contractor bags under the tires , leave them folded up.

    • @claybird8184
      @claybird8184 5 лет назад +1

      Good idea on the books!

    • @claybird8184
      @claybird8184 5 лет назад +2

      @@greggzavorotny7872 Good Idea!

  • @cleanDirtyDog
    @cleanDirtyDog 2 года назад +2

    Thank You , Thank You , Thank You , I followed your directions and was able to complete the toe alignment on my 2006 Chevy Aveo Ls....

  • @gittyupalice96
    @gittyupalice96 4 года назад

    I knew all this already except the string method of measuring.. Wich is an awesome idea and really simplifies things. I will say on a 4x4 its easier because your inner and outer tie rods are connected with a threaded rod that basically adjusts them twice as fast : D and I think the twin lock nuts are easier than the single big nut on a 2 wheel drive. PLUS its high off the ground so no jacks required for 4x4 vehicles.

  • @johnmoua549
    @johnmoua549 5 лет назад +49

    I took a shot everytime you said "okay", I'm now drunk

    • @4evertwisted
      @4evertwisted 3 года назад

      😆

    • @groove269
      @groove269 3 года назад

      Been 2 years. Still drunk? That was a lot of “okay’s”

    • @paulhunter123
      @paulhunter123 2 года назад

      @@groove269 okay

  • @indiajesuslovesyou
    @indiajesuslovesyou 8 лет назад +23

    Suggest you loosen your rubber boots on rack when adjusting tie rods so you don't twist boots! James

    • @joshtapuro3603
      @joshtapuro3603 8 лет назад +7

      lol,finally someone mentioned this alot of videos don't mention the boot ,the boot twist with the rod happened to me had to keep turning it back to shape

    • @indiajesuslovesyou
      @indiajesuslovesyou 8 лет назад +2

      +Josh Tapuro Thankyou!

    • @jnunez1203
      @jnunez1203 5 лет назад +1

      James Sasse tell me..learn tge hard way😅😂

    • @lilej8996
      @lilej8996 5 лет назад

      Fuck....I just did an alignment and forgot to loosen boot....

  • @gothikia
    @gothikia 4 года назад

    Everything there looks exactly like the Mk 7 Fiesta. Exactly what I needed. Perfect :) Thank you!

  • @mikemckenzie3634
    @mikemckenzie3634 4 года назад

    Awesome video. I've heard of this but never seen it preformed. Thank you.

  • @alektad
    @alektad 8 лет назад +35

    Assuming your rims are not bent at all. Next time do the measurement to the tire instead, The rubber should give way to any small inconsistencies in the rim's shape. Or just spin the wheel and see if the distance remains unchanged as it spins.

    • @GOIN-CRAZY
      @GOIN-CRAZY 3 года назад

      That's a good point thanks

  • @roymariano7116
    @roymariano7116 4 года назад +4

    In the video, after he was done adjusting the tie rods, he locked them with only one wrench on the lock nut. This resulted in movement of the tie rod, which throws off the adjustment. So, when both unlocking and locking the tie rod, two wrenches are required. One wrench to hold the tie rod in place without twisting it out of adjustment, and the second wrench to turn the lock-nut. Flare-nut wrenches, commonly used for plumbing, are best suited for the job of holding the lock-nut, because these hold the nut on five of the six sides of the lock-nut.
    and next are the Camber and the Caster adjustments. Waiting for that video. Thanks.
    ( could your next video also explain concepts such as Ackerman Steering and the correction of front wheel drift during cornering. Thanks)

  • @axa.axa.
    @axa.axa. 5 лет назад

    Did my last alignment like this. It works. It actually took lot longer than I anticipated, but I tend to be grossly ana about the work I do.

  • @ant98tan
    @ant98tan 2 года назад

    Thanks for the knowledge. You've saved myself and other money and time. Keep doing it my brother your appreciated.

  • @erickrojas6476
    @erickrojas6476 8 лет назад +13

    lol making important videos, Nice video will try this Thankd

    • @myRatchets
      @myRatchets  8 лет назад +2

      +Erick Rojas np, thanks for watching.

  • @norincobro658
    @norincobro658 7 лет назад +87

    You must have all the wheels on the ground when an alignment is done.
    Toe changes with suspension movement.

    • @b96kid
      @b96kid 5 лет назад +4

      Very true I was going to comment the same

    • @waynes.2983
      @waynes.2983 5 лет назад +33

      Or you put the stands under the lower control arms. Like he did.

    • @b96kid
      @b96kid 5 лет назад +4

      It appears the jack stands are on the pinch welds not underneath the lower control arm. You could place a jack underneath the lower control arms and jack the arm up to load the suspension.

    • @dustinpomeroy8817
      @dustinpomeroy8817 5 лет назад +1

      I did this a couple of times and put 12 x12 vinyl tiles under the wheels ,but either way it's only meant to get temporary drivability until you can get it done at a shop

    • @dustinpomeroy8817
      @dustinpomeroy8817 5 лет назад +7

      @r laze you measure at all 4 points on the rims

  • @Krazyk007x2
    @Krazyk007x2 3 года назад +1

    Very nice. Thanks for this. I have some tie rod work to do & was dreading the cost of an alignment. I think I can handle this.

  • @michaelbalaun6390
    @michaelbalaun6390 4 года назад

    Very informative. Thank you. Only one thing I never got good at was measurements. While i do okay for simple ones like, ¼ or ½ or ¾. No one's ever been able to teach me majority of what you were saying. Not knocking your video. I just figured maybe someone will read and be able to send me a site or PM so that I could comprehend. Awesome though. I hope this fixes my crooked steering wheel and pull to the right.

  • @wadewillson6796
    @wadewillson6796 8 лет назад +36

    haha we are running red light's but it's OK because we're making important video's lol that was a good video buddy... made me spill my DrPepper laughing....

  • @Coondawgwoopwoop
    @Coondawgwoopwoop 5 лет назад +2

    ooooohhhhhh so that's how i run red lights! i've been doing it wrong for years, thanks for the tip. =D

  • @Xevil-vn1tm
    @Xevil-vn1tm 4 месяца назад +1

    Thank you for making this video. You're a life saver.

  • @SladesVWBeetle
    @SladesVWBeetle 5 лет назад

    Oh man I like the red light run!! That was good bro! 😂😂

  • @xx3868
    @xx3868 5 лет назад +5

    Toes measurements have to within a couple of mm's measured at the tread so when you set the rims 1 mm toe at tyre tread will be larger so accuracy is vital and the weight has to be on the wheels or it wont be accurate.
    You cant align the rope along the car or rear wheels as it simply will be out as the rears are always slightly out.
    To do this i use thin fishing line so i can see each mm on the ruler- 6 pound line is ok
    I set the steering wheel as straight as possible driving the car forward then lock of the steering wheel with a steel pole through the doors windows clamped to steering wheel- It must not move at all!
    Then some jack stands beyond the front and rear of car along sides and tension line with some weights at rear so line is taught. Now the critical step. You need to align one side line first and use that as your master line. Use ruler on RHF rim and move line till front and back of front rim is exactly the same to a mm! dont touch that line or stands anymore. Now get the left hand line close to car side and use measuring stiff rod to measure between the L & R lines at the stands front and rear till the line are exactly the same distance apart front and rear. now the 2 lines are precisely parallel. Try to get this as accurate as possible and make very small movements in the left side ONLY stands till it zero diff if possible.
    Now you will have already loosened off the left tie rod and now for eg ZERO toe, you measure same as right side get the left rim same front and back really accurately to same distance from left line eg 41mm and 41 mm- now 2 front wheels are exactly parallel with each other if not with car direction , but does not matter as they both turn sightly together when you move forward and stay aligned to each other.
    Accuracy- any small error in say 2mm 16 feet between front and rear stands between lines will be 1mm half the length and only less than 1/2 a mm for the metre width of tyre which means that you only be out that much if adjust to zero diff on ruler. Allowance is upwards of 1-2 mm on toe usually so set up is critical to success and thin line for accuracy of reading- dont use fat string or do when windy or line will bend.
    Rear wheels only have to be out of alignment a mm or 2 and that angle will be multiplied if you run lines to wards front and do you alignment off that so you toe could be out my 5-10mm! You can align rear wheel to each other using lines but CANT align to body direction as they stay fixed when car moves forward unlike front wheels. So rear wheel alignment is impossible without shop alignment machine that read the wheels turn as car is pushed forwards and backwards and can see if they roll same direction precisely as car body using mirrors or laser/cams ect strapped to each 4 wheels .
    So lines only possible to do on fronts accurately , rears cannot be done accurately using lines or used to align front wheels using rears.
    My rears are ok and camber out a little but effect is not noticeable and my car drives dead straight with dead still steering wheel. For an old car it not matter but out of alignment rears will affect the thrust line crooked to body line and in some case throw everything out making front alignment waste of time.Shop work will be necessary.

    • @rawfoodphilosophy7061
      @rawfoodphilosophy7061 3 года назад +1

      Just measure the distance between the jack stands at the front and the back where the string is attached example 67 in vs 67 in and make sure the number is exactly the same! Then the lines will be perfectly parallel

  • @the2120company
    @the2120company 5 лет назад +4

    🤣.. running a red lights Its OK -you made my day ! Thanks

  • @itsmisterchris
    @itsmisterchris 4 года назад

    You adjustable wrench with the lock handle is a great tool .i got one too n it never stripped or rounded a nut/bolt vs a standard adjustable wrench

  • @pgo301
    @pgo301 4 года назад

    HEY!!! I like this, beats the $69.99 that most people end up paying. Appreciate the good tutorial. Bookmarking this. Please keep this up. Thanks.

  • @lucasstyer2636
    @lucasstyer2636 6 лет назад +4

    The only issue I have is what makes you think that rope is plumb or completely straight. If it’s off 1/16” there goes the whole procedure. A much better way to do it is with a tape measure and a mark on each steer tire. Usually making the mark in the center of each tire. Then you put each mark facing forward and measure the distance between them then rotate wheels 180 degrees so marks are painted to the back and do the same this way you have a constant reference and don’t have to rely on your eye and a string. Set your tow between a 1/16-1/8 in and you’ll be good unless you’re rear end is out of whack but then you have bigger issues to deal with than a front end alignment

  • @TomsChevelle
    @TomsChevelle 9 лет назад +8

    I think you were turning the inner tie rod as you tightened the locking nut which would have messed up the alignment. 5:52

    • @ugadawgs98
      @ugadawgs98 8 лет назад +5

      The whole assembly turned until the ball joint reached the limit allowing tension to tighten the nut.....it wasn't just the inner tie rod moving.

  • @edwardlatt7383
    @edwardlatt7383 3 года назад

    Holy crap dude.. i never thought of using the rear tires as the " anchor point" for the alignment....
    nicely done.

  • @tony27ortiz
    @tony27ortiz Год назад

    Thank you for the video. It was very helpful. Didn't know it was so simple, you just save me some money.

  • @EKKoSYKESMusic
    @EKKoSYKESMusic 4 года назад +9

    We are running red lights but it’s OK because we’re doing very important videos LMAO

  • @spelunkerd
    @spelunkerd 9 лет назад +13

    I didn't know that guideline about wanting a slight toe-in of 1/16" on each side. Do you find that having wheels off the ground doesn't affect the numbers very much?

    • @myRatchets
      @myRatchets  9 лет назад +6

      Most people recommend doing it on the ground, I personally havent had much problem raising the car and adjusting the tie rods then. Thanks for your comment.

    • @dnlmachine4287
      @dnlmachine4287 9 лет назад +7

      Slight toe-in makes the car want to go straight, like when you snowplow when skiing. Otherwise the car wanders and does not return to "straight" after a turn or when you let go of the steering wheel. Stay gold

    • @dnlmachine4287
      @dnlmachine4287 9 лет назад

      *****
      Sorry commented before viewing whole video. Stay gold.

    • @papi-champoo6033
      @papi-champoo6033 9 лет назад +3

      Every road has a crown which is why you don't put the alignment perfectly dead on straight. The degree of the crown depends on the state you live in, here in Florida we have a 5 degree crown so you'll pull to the right more often, so adjust accordingly.

    • @1stupidfish
      @1stupidfish 6 лет назад

      Lifting the tires was the first in a string of mistakes made in this process. It can affect the tow as much as 2 degrees. That may not sound like much but what feels good on dry roads can land you on a ditch when the weather turns bad.

  • @vrenamazer
    @vrenamazer 5 лет назад

    first guy who explained it VERY Good, thank you so much!!!

  • @guiraguira4868
    @guiraguira4868 4 года назад

    Thanks . 2morrow will check the alignments of mine 3 cars, seems very easy, these is going to save me $$$.

  • @KeithBickford
    @KeithBickford 4 года назад +150

    When you lift the vehicle, the toe angle changes. Toe must be adjusted with the vehicle on the ground.

    • @CraigFulton
      @CraigFulton 4 года назад +15

      Keith Bickford Exacty what I was thinking

    • @cheecht9785
      @cheecht9785 4 года назад +7

      Keith Bickford unfortunately I agree.

    • @truthtimetv4575
      @truthtimetv4575 4 года назад +13

      how about if you set the vehicle down onto cinder blocks

    • @chilant
      @chilant 4 года назад +7

      Truth Time TV better make sure your parking brake is on and you put blocks in rear . But yeah it should work

    • @mopenstein
      @mopenstein 4 года назад +3

      @@truthtimetv4575 or ramps?

  • @Lightsoutpredatorremoval
    @Lightsoutpredatorremoval 8 лет назад +5

    Also the steering wheel must be locked with with a special tool while adjusting toe or the steering wheel will more then likely not be straight

  • @brandonjones362
    @brandonjones362 5 лет назад

    love your low mile Mustang.
    I have same model 03 with 140, 000 mile
    so I like your videos!

  • @Hahehhwgajshah72726..
    @Hahehhwgajshah72726.. 3 года назад

    Saludos de Sydney Australia hermano.Muchas Gracias por todo los videos que hace.

  • @louieaceti1508
    @louieaceti1508 7 лет назад +50

    drive home in reverse over the potholes that fucked your ride.....BOOM fixed

  • @ferdinandaugustifson4424
    @ferdinandaugustifson4424 8 лет назад +74

    The only issue I have with this procedure is taking measurements and doing adjustments with the front wheels off the ground supported with stands and leaving the front wheels hanging free, i.e., no weight on the front wheels and car not level. This can and almost certainly will change your measurements and adjustments between this position and wheels with vehicle weight on the ground. Reaching the tie rod adjusters is more difficult but not impossible, and makes for a more accurate setting.

    • @moby271
      @moby271 8 лет назад +7

      You are right. What is shown in the video with the weight off from the front tires is totally useless. Alignments are never done this way. I would like to see these tires after he drives the car for 500 miles.

    • @lamboiah
      @lamboiah 8 лет назад +9

      That too was my only issue. Good video for the most part though!

    • @chrishensley5140
      @chrishensley5140 8 лет назад

      \1tv I'm saw

    • @jalster2
      @jalster2 8 лет назад +4

      I'd like to see this addressed as well! From what I learned, when suspension jounces (de-compresses as the car is lifted), the toe naturally changes. Therefore, when the mustang is lowered back to the pavement, he will be left with toe angle in each tire. At least they should be symmetric now!

    • @scottthewaterwarrior
      @scottthewaterwarrior 7 лет назад +2

      Would the toe change the same on both sides when you lower the car? If so I will probably raise my anyway, make it easier to get to the rods, then lower it and figure out how much the tow changes. I guess I'd have to raise and lower the car twice this way, but I doubt my driveway is smooth enough to put cardboard under the wheels anyway.

  • @drivewaygarage1561
    @drivewaygarage1561 2 года назад

    Thanks for the video, I'm installing new tie rods next week and I'm sure I will have to do this.

  • @wesg3084
    @wesg3084 4 года назад

    Great video! My uncle just paid over $100 to have his front end laser aligned at a garage. I just replaced the front struts on my car, so I'm hoping this free and easy trick will do it.