Alignments: How Often?
Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 580
Likes: 0
From: Reston VA
Alignments: How Often?
Just got my C5 ZO6 aligned for the coming autox and HPDE/PDX season.
Everything was way off and radically different from what I had installed last year at this time. I thought all it needed was minor tinkering, but I must admit the car feels much better after readjusting everything. Same experienced shop.
So I wanted to ask: how often do all of you completely redo your alignment? I get the impression that an alignment doesn't hold up that well to a season of autoxing and doing occasional track events (even with only 3K miles driving on the street).
Am I right about this?
Everything was way off and radically different from what I had installed last year at this time. I thought all it needed was minor tinkering, but I must admit the car feels much better after readjusting everything. Same experienced shop.
So I wanted to ask: how often do all of you completely redo your alignment? I get the impression that an alignment doesn't hold up that well to a season of autoxing and doing occasional track events (even with only 3K miles driving on the street).
Am I right about this?
Instructor
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 181
Likes: 0
From: AV MN
I don't have an answer for you, as I just had mine done three weeks ago. However: It's my understanding that C5's and C6's that are frequently autocrossed have a tendency to trash front control arm bushings fairly regularly. Are yours stock/original?
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 3,070
Likes: 5
From: Charleston South Carolina
I use the David Farmer method for checking alignment and adjust them myself in-season. Just need a straight edge, a measuring tape, and a level and you're set for checking your toe and camber.
I also mark the cam bolts and the tie rod ends after professionally setting all the alignments so I can periodically check for changes.
I also mark the cam bolts and the tie rod ends after professionally setting all the alignments so I can periodically check for changes.
Race Director
Joined: Sep 1999
Posts: 12,439
Likes: 920
From: CONCORD NC
my method can be downloaded here
http://www.davidfarmerstuff.com/
I highly suggest marking your cam bolts, so you can verify nothing has moved. At this point, if your alignment changes, then your bushings are deforming.
And as ErnieN85 suggest, you absolution have to hold the bolt in place. If not, it will move when you torque the nut to 120ft-lb
http://www.davidfarmerstuff.com/
I highly suggest marking your cam bolts, so you can verify nothing has moved. At this point, if your alignment changes, then your bushings are deforming.
And as ErnieN85 suggest, you absolution have to hold the bolt in place. If not, it will move when you torque the nut to 120ft-lb
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