Alignment check

After replacing my inner and outer tie rods, new bilstein 5100's OME 2884 springs, new wheels and tires on my '02 4WD AC I got an alignment. I don't know much of anything about alignment but was a little disappointed at how much red is still showing. When I asked them about it they basically said I only need to worry about camber, caster and toe and all those values were close enough. Thoughts?

 

@assassin10000

 

I like this style of alignment print out better for customer because it's more visually appealing.



Here's a basic run down on what each thing means



Lastly, I agree with the shop. Caster, camber and toe are the main items you need to be concerned with.

 

Recommended numbers are in the megathread, suspension section: https://www.tundras.com/threads/so-you-wanna-buy-just-bought-a-1st-gen-tundra-eh.115928/

I would go back and push them for more caster, based on what I've seen for road behavior/temperament at higher speeds. They're showing the high end at 2.1, and they should've gotten you to at least 2.0

 

OK good to know. Is it the type of thing where sometimes it's not possible to get it within range? I don't have any rust so I'm not sure if they physically couldn't do it or just didn't feel like trying..

 

The shop I went to does overland builds and is no stranger to alignment, they have a really nice rack, and have the knowledge. They just wouldn't. The shop manager basically refused to give me more caster, made me explain why I wanted more caster, then claimed he could fix my issues. Threw the truck on the rack, I couldn't see what he did, and they wouldn't give me alignment numbers after.

What I and others have found on here is most shops only set the toe and send you on your way, i.e. "toe and go". As long as everything is green, they're sending you on your way. Most shops don't understand how some of our suspension stuff works (like, SPC uppers).

tl;dr - If bushings are good, and you're not over 3" lift, yes, it's possible to get in range if they know what they're doing. I don't even have a rack and I managed to get my shit within the green (almost back to OEM) across the board before I brought it in for alignment. Finding a shop that understands what works for the 1st Gen Tundra, or anyone who understands more than "toe and go" is difficult, though. Especially with chain stores.

 

They did toe only. I'd get my money back or have them redo it.

Same with @shifty`. If he won't give you the numbers that's BS.

 

I’ve found over the years a good alignment shop is very hard to find. Goodluck

 

OP that’s very little Caster. You’ll probably have a wandering feeling, and very loose steering. Wider tires and higher offset wheels offset for low Caster.

Ask to talk to the floor manager. I ask for 0 Camber, maximum Caster with correcting for road crown, and toe in spec.

 

ok thank you all for the advice. I will study up a bit on what this all means and either take it back or see if there's someone with a better reputation in town. Somehow I don't think these guys are going to give a crap.