Date:         Sun, 20 Apr 2008 11:40:33 +0000
Reply-To:     Trvlr2001@COMCAST.NET
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         "John C..." <Trvlr2001@COMCAST.NET>
Subject:      Re: front suspension problem

Hi Mike,
I just replaced all of the ball joints, tie rods, bushings & bearings etc.
And, Wow are my tires pointed in funny directions !
What do you do to get them close?
thanks,
John

-------------- Original message --------------
From: Mike <mbucchino@CHARTER.NET>

> They aren't so difficult that you can't do it yourself, either. I've
> always done my own front end parts replacement. I can even do a decent
> alignment at home, if necessary. Both the upper/ lower balljoints and the
> a-arm bushings are relatively easy to do for the average DIY-er here. While
> the a-arm's off, take it to a welder for a couple of tacks on the bushings
> per Bentley instructions, if you can't do that part.
> IIRC, all 4 parts can be replaced without requiring an alignment, but if
> needed, it could be driven to be aligned, after all parts replacement work
> is done.
>
> Mike B.
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Mike Collum"
> To:
> Sent: Saturday, April 19, 2008 11:32 PM
> Subject: Re: front suspension problem
>
>
> > Dan Barrett wrote:
> >> Volks,
> >> When the passenger's side front wheel of my bus is jacked up, I am
> >> able to grasp the wheel and shake it vertically
> >
> > When you are moving the wheel vertically, observe the various joints in
> > the suspension system like the upper and lower ball joints and the upper
> > A frame. You should be able to see what has some play. Knowing where
> > the problem is puts you well ahead in the game.
> >
> > Vanagon suspension systems aren't so weird that a competent front end
> > mechanic can't do a good job. If in doubt, read your Bentley so you're
> > knowledgeable enough to discuss the procedure with him/her.
> >
> > Mike
> >