Tracking/Alignment problem?

[Ex-User (19928)]

So I've just finished putting my car back together.

Replaced both front wishbones (OE), new shocks all round (OE), Eibach springs, top mounts (OE) and all new engine mounts.

Seeing as the Clio has no adjustability in it's suspension as standard I don't see how I could have funked the alignment.. But driving it feels on edge when going straight. Much like my MX5 when I gave that the -100mm treatment which was just a setup issue although that has full adjustability (that was double wishbone setup and didn't touch anything other than the coilovers).

Is this another problem rearing it's head? Pretty sure I've not knocked the tie rods that badly..

 

[NorthloopCup]

I'd get the alignment checked if I were you mate. I would almost say 100% that the tracking is out. Half a millimetre here and there will make all the difference, and inevitably put things out of tolerance. If you've fitted lowering springs the tracking will almost certainly be out.

 

[Stava]

I had to get my tracking adjusted after fitting Sportlines pal. Made a world of difference.

 

[Ex-User (19928)]

I had the alignment done and it had massive toe out on the drivers side wheel. All sorted now.

It puzzled me because I didn't touch anything other than the parts mentioned, which have no adjustment built in, that said, if it had been aligned previously with a worn bush here or there perhaps that's the issue.

Can definitely feel the difference, although the top mounts are now knocking even though I read the "new and improved" top mounts are supposed to remedy this.

 

[Tony Hunter]

Just taking things apart and putting them back together again can alter it.

 

[JackD]

Is tracking all that's needed to align the set up? I've recently had camber added to my from wheels but still need to get it set up properly. Can you average garage sort it out or do I need a specialist?

 

[JackD]

Ps sorry for the hijack! Just don't know if I need a full geometry thing done or not!

 

[James28]

Yea for camber you'd need to get the wheels aligned.
That sets up camber, toe etc properly iirc

Most people seem to recommend anywhere that has a laser wheel alignment system.
Try putting your postcode in here: http://www.alignmycar.co.uk/ Can also download a 5% off voucher at the bottom of the page too.

 

[Stava]

How have you had camber added?

 

[.Stevo.C.]

Had this problem when I fitted sportlines and cup shocks to my 172 had to get camber bolts fitted.

 

[JackD]

Well the previous owner had camber bolts for it, but now that I increased the camber I'm not sure if it's worth me keeping it or not as I don't track my car enough to really get the benefits of it but will still get the negatives of uneven faster tyre wear? what do you guys think? Is it worth having camber or not? I'll get laser wheel alignment done either way

 

[Stava]

How much camber are we talking?

How have you increased the camber?

Do you still have camber bolts fitted?

 

[JackD]

Maximum on the bolts I believe! Think they're eibach? At the moment yeah, doesn't feel entirely stable though so looking to get it sorted ASAP!

 

[Stava]

And you're still running standard suspension?

 

[James28]

Just wack your standard bolts back in I would.
On standard suspension no real need for camber I doubt.
Get it aligned after like you said still though.

 

[JackD]

No I have H&R coilovers and adjustable camber bolts? Don't have the standard ones as far as I am aware!

 

[JackD]

Please forgive my ignorance! I know nothing when it comes to suspension/geometry!

 

[Stava]

Just take it to an alignment setup up. Won't cost too much.

Don't go mental with the camber though, no need at all.

 

[James28]

Oh if your on adjustable coilovers keep the camber bolts.
As said just take it to get the alignment done. They'll set up the camber etc.

 

[Tigger]

I had new discs and spacers put on my rear, not the alignment is slightly off :S

That normal? :S lol