Updated alignment spec question

[speck58]

About to throw some new tires on my ride. I want to have it aligned too since I'm in the group that thinks that my car has been out of alignment since day 1 but the stealership wouldn't check it. So here are my questions.

-Are the updated alignment specs in the alignment TSB the new updated specs and apply to all our cars or only for cars which exhibit the symptoms in the TSB.
-Should you get the alignment done before or after the new tires. If it doesn't matter I'm just gonna do it afterward.
-Is true that only the dealership can only adjust certain aspects of our alignments or can anyplace do it.

Thanks!

[joey]

For a standard alignment, toe is the only thing that can be adjusted. There is no way to adjust camber/caster. The only way to adjust the caster and camber is with a cradle adjustment, or an adjustment bolt package.
Or buy an aftermarket camber kit to fix negative camber.

When getting an alignment, the only thing a wheel/tire shop will do is adjust the toe.

Here is what the Service Manual says about Caster and Camber alignments.

CAMBER AND CASTER
Camber and caster settings on this vehicle are determined at the time the vehicle is designed, by the location of the vehicle’s suspension components. This is referred to as NET BUILD. The result is no required adjustment of camber and caster after the vehicle is built or when servicing the suspension components. Thus, when performing a wheel alignment, caster and camber are not normally considered adjustable angles. Camber and caster should be checked to ensure they meet vehicle specifications.
If individual front camber or caster is found not to meet alignment specifications, each can be adjusted by shifting the engine cradle if cross-camber and cross-caster are within specifications, or by using an available service adjustment bolt package. Always try to shift the cradle first (if camber and caster are off slightly) to correct the mis-alignment before installing an adjustment bolt package. If an adjustment bolt package installation is necessary, inspect the suspension components for any signs of damage or bending first.

[speck58]

Thanks Joey... That was extra informative and appreciated! No disrespect, but it doesn't really answer any of my questions. I'm mostly concerned about questions 1 and 3 so I can make sure I get an calibration report and I have numbers to compare against so I know I'm using the correct specs. Thanks!

[joey]

Ok. I was trying inform you that taking your car in for a regular "alignment" will only result in a toe change.

You said you have been out of alignment since day one. Maybe I am wrong, but I assume you mean you have the right lead/pull problem. Getting an "alignment" will not fix the right lead/pull unless the dealer gets into the cradle adjustment or adjustment bolt package.

Not sure why your dealer would not check your alignment. If they don't have the alignment equipment in the shop, they should send your car to another contracted local shop for the alignment.

To answer your questions the best I can,
# 1 -The TSB alignment specs are good for all cars.
# 2 - After
# 3 - This is probably referring to the cradle or adjustment bolt package.
Obviously any tire/alignment shop can do a "regular" alignment on our cars. But if you need the cradle/bolt adjustment then you will need a shop that has a mechanic that can do the job. Some alignment shops are usually scared or unsure about the cradle/bolt adjustment and will tell you to take your car to the dealer. Other alignment shops may take the job if they have a qualified mechanic. I personally wouldn't have a tire/alignment shop do the cradle adjustment unless they have done it a few times before.

[speck58]

That's what I was looking for... Thanks for answering my questions!