Need Alignment Specs

[Ross]

I have done a search of old threads about alignment, and after looking at all of the opinions and counter-opinions expressed, I'm still not sure if we have a true idea of what the factory specs are. I've seen some people print some specs, only to have others say that those are for CV/GM, not MM. I'm going in tomorrow to get mine aligned (finally started seeing uneven wear after 19K), and I want to know that the tech is going to do everything right. Can't go to Ennis with the wrong toe out!

[MMM2003]

Check the FAQ section. That's what I would go by. Click this link and scroll to the bottom:

http://www.mercurymarauder.net/modules.php?s=&op=modload&name=FAQ&file=index&myfaq=yes&id_cat=5&categories=Basic+Information

Good luck

[Ross]

MMM, thanks for the link. BTW, when I was checking and copying those specs, the Toe spec says

LH---
RH---
Total -0.12 plus/minus 0.25


What does the "---" mean? Has something been left out there, or is that a term that is understood by alignment people?

[Hemlock]

CAREFUL WITH THE WHEELS DURING ALINEMENT , THEY CAN BE DAMAGED REAL EASY .

[SergntMac]

There's a special bracket for the Hunter machines that mounts inside the wheel, not on the polished surface. Make sure they're using this adapter, or, you will puncture your clear coat finish and damage the polished aluminum.

[Warpath]

Originally posted by Ross
MMM, thanks for the link. BTW, when I was checking and copying those specs, the Toe spec says

LH---
RH---
Total -0.12 plus/minus 0.25


What does the "---" mean? Has something been left out there, or is that a term that is understood by alignment people?

Its understood. What is important is total toe. Even if left toe doesn't equal right toe, it will equal out as you drive. Plus, the alignment equipment uses just total toe (I think) even though it prints out individual toes (if it does).

[Butch]

I'm going to be buying new tires soon myself, but I wonder if those specs in the FAQ are what we should truly go by. My MM is still in "spec", but the tires are still wearing a little on the inside. Has anyone had their MM alignment "corrected" to compensate for this wear, and if yes, then do you have the #s that I should give them?

[worksuxxx]

I have spoken to a few owners about the alignment issue and tire wear. Basically it boils down to this, if you alter the alignment to try and save tire wear in the front, you get a looser feel and not as good handling. I myself do not like the wear we all are finding in the front tires, but will sacrifice the ride and handling for a little wear. When the time comes, I will buy four tires the same size allowing for rotation of the tires to allow longer life. The alignment really isn't the issue that I see, it is the fact we are unable to rotate.

[Thomas C Potter]

I'm sure some of you caught the error wrt to the Right Camber in that link. It states neg .07, should be neg 0.7, same as left of course.

I've said this before, go with neg .25 deg camber, this will help inner tread wear, and you'll need a calibrated butt to feel the diff in cornering. Same size front and rear is a good way to go. Trac Cont will come on at approx 38 mph if you have TCS, simply turn off switch.

TP

(PS did that '99 crown vic ever get his oil filter off??)