Date:         Sat, 6 Jun 2009 00:17:43 -0400
Reply-To:     Dennis Haynes <d23haynes57@HOTMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Dennis Haynes <d23haynes57@HOTMAIL.COM>
Subject:      Re: Four wheel alignment--Empty, Half Load, or Full Load??
Comments: To: Harold Teer <teer.vanagon@GMAIL.COM>
In-Reply-To:  <ffd6b090906051200g7aa1a623s39fe7790ed82d2bb@mail.gmail.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="US-ASCII"

When was the last time the front radius rod mounts were replaced? These are
important to maintain proper caster angle. Check them carefully. If they are
compressed or worn replace them before an alignment.

Load the van as you would for normal travel. This will give the best
results. The angles most effected by load is the front toe and caster.
Proper caster adjustment is critical as this sets the "Feel" of the van's
steering. The desire to go straight ahead, have the wheel to return to
center after a turn, is determined mostly by this angle.

Dennis


-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Harold Teer
Sent: Friday, June 05, 2009 3:01 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Four wheel alignment--Empty, Half Load, or Full Load??

Before we take off on our summer trip, I need some advice before having a
four wheel alignment on my "91 Westy with steel wheels and 14" tires.

In the Bentley manual on page 44.2, it lists three different configurations
for the alignment---Empty, Half Load, Full Load

I would think that the Westy should be set at least at Half Load but am
wondering if it should be set at Full Load.

I know nothing (zip, nada, zilch, etc) about an alignment and will give the
manual to the alignment shop, but need to know what configuration I should
specify.

Thanks,

Harold

Harold Teer
1991 Westy (Vangaux)
Harrisonburg, VA