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View Full Version : Alignment advice needed


Blue55
02-19-2017, 08:48 AM
Hey guys,

I prefer to do my own alignment. I have a Longacre camber gauge, but to do toe I have been using the string method.

I have 2 metal bars with string attached and I measure the distance from the wheels. It's a huge pain in the butt. I'm considering getting a cheap laser toe gauge like Trackace on eBay for $90. http://www.ebay.com/itm/Trackace-Laser-Wheel-Alignment-System-Tracking-Gauges-Toe-in-Out-Tool-Tracker-/300814333955?hash=item4609ee7803:g:KisAAOSw7ThUeXX X

Is this a piece of junk or should I get get some toe plates and call it a day?

mechanicalmoron
02-19-2017, 08:56 AM
I have to say, stringing is very fast and easy. You need 4 jackstands, one of those pocket rulers with a sliding clip to quickly record or compare measurements, and a spool of kite string. And to know that a stock s13 should have the string 2.5mm farther from the rear hubs to achieve parallel strings, because of the narrower rear track width.

Takes about 15 minutes for a fine alignment - what's not good about that?

Not saying don't buy toys, just that they're toys, it's seriously fast, easy, and effective to string cars, if you know the track widths.

wurley
02-19-2017, 11:44 AM
Make sure you know the track with and understand how to set up the stings accordingly. If you can do that, its pretty easy.
http://www.negative-camber.org/jam149/technical/alignment.html
here is some good information/tips. So far my tires dont have unusual wear, but i dont put many miles on them so idk.

Blue55
02-21-2017, 01:01 PM
Make sure you know the track with and understand how to set up the stings accordingly. If you can do that, its pretty easy.
http://www.negative-camber.org/jam149/technical/alignment.html
here is some good information/tips. So far my tires dont have unusual wear, but i dont put many miles on them so idk.

I'm pretty familiar with the string method and have used it successfully many times. I just find it a major pain in the butt. It's easy to bump into the string and it's much easier with 2 people. I'm looking to reduce the amount of time I spend on alignment.

Appreciate the advice!