[66 chevelle 496BBC]

hello,

I am completing a frame off restoration on my 66 with a big block. am i at the point that i can drive the car now. i installed new ball joints. bushings and some tie rods the rest were in good shape. all that is needed is paint. I see here that i may want to get different from original specs for the front end alignment. i am using 15" wheels with radials. stock height. can anyone in the know suggest specs for a front end alignment. i have a shop that will listen.

jim

 

[UMI Tech]

Hi Jim.

Our base alignment is below.

Camber 0 to -1/4 degrees
Caster – Driver Side +4 degrees
Caster – Passenger Side +4.5 degrees
Toe IN 1/8” total

You may not be able to achieve the caster with factory arms. If not, simply use the same split but with a lower number.

You can remember camber by the way the tire is tilted toward the CAM. Tilting the tire inward allows it to corner flat as the car puts pressure on the tire.

You can remember caster by the way the upper ball joint is rearward like CASTing a fishing line. More caster equals more stability and less vague steering feel.

Toe helps self canceling on corner exit and keeps the car going straight down the highway.

Glad you have a good shop.

ramey

 

[66 chevelle 496BBC]

thanks Ramey,

By the way, thanks for the shirts at carlisle. i picked up a complete rear suspension system friday from you that i ordered in advance. will be doing that this weekend and then the alignment.

jim