BleepinJeep Alignment Tool – Mild Steel

Before attempting alignment, look for signs of worn steering components (ball joints/tie rod ends/drag link, and bearings). With the axle lifted and wheel still attached, attempt to wiggle it inward and outward to check for worn/loose bearings/races (mine were due to the last idiot not ensuring the lock washers were secured against the outer spindle nut which allowed them to loosen/back out over time ultimatly destroying them). I recommend Timken bearing/race set. Drag links and tie rod ends are relatively simple and inexpensive to replace, so do it now if suspect. I used USA Moog, and recommend staying away from imports, but think Dana/Spicer was original. Ball joints typically require specialty tools to remove/re-install them in their hanger brackets. The brackets on the other hand are easy to remove. Worn bearings are greasy/messy business, I did it and used Timken. I purchased a seal removal tool for the inward bearing. I borrowed Ball joint removal tool (they came out easy, not so much going back in) and a race driver assortment for the job. I chose an automotive machine shop to get the ball joints back in for safety and peace of mind. I also had them replace the front axle universal joints. I removed the differential carrier for removal of the inner axle seals.Once you are certain the steering components are functional, then1. Center the steering wheel.2. Pin/hold a long straight edge against the passenger side front and rear tires, noting if the front tire is toe in or out.3. Adjust drag link until the straight edge contacts both edges of the front and rear tire, re-secure it to the tires as you adjust the drag link to ensure it remains in contact.4. Lift the vehicle to remove both front tire/wheels.5. Attach the tool to the driver and passenger side to the two lowest lug nuts on each side.6. Locate the matching recess locations (front and rear on both tools) and utilize adhesive tape to fasten the TWO of the same brand tape measurers to the tool on the side of your choice wheel lug nuts.7. Stretch/extend both tape measures under/across to the other side of the vehicle.8. Hang the tape measures over the matching two recess locations, using their locking feature to ensure both are dangling in the air and not touching the ground, noting the reading.9. Use a bubble level to insure both sides are level.10. If adjustment is needed, loosen the left and right side retention bolts for the drag link to allow manipulation.11. Adjust until recommended specs are met, the re-tighten the tie rod end adjustment retaining bolts and check again to ensure correct.During the procedure the tool was pushed out of level, so check it often.My Jeep was 1-1/8″ toe out (very bad), and now its as close as a jeep driver could expect. The tool is an excellent design.