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Post by Volktales on Aug 26, 2015 19:31:35 GMT -8
Can't argue with anything Mitchy said... And by the way, in terms of vintage VW's, the rear axles most certainly can be, and SHOULD be aligned on all models...
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Post by PICTUP on Aug 27, 2015 10:49:48 GMT -8
don't blame the shop or techs!! most newer alignment machines require 4 heads to be installed for a 2 wheel alignment. i wont complain about this much however and you shouldn't either. when you install the heads on the wheels, the machine checks to see if any rims are bent and wont allow you to continue until they are straigt,next it triangulates the axles to the frame and to each other,showing any set back or other issues with the frame,axles or other components.a good alignment tech that keeps his eyes open can spot worn spring eye bushing/shackles,loose spring u bolts and diff mounting issues just by the read outs supplied by the heads on the rear wheels (yes,on that non adjustable solid rear axle). i had a new client that asked for an alignment even though our competitors had already done this 3 times at three different shops.our machine picked up a rotten subframe that was allowing the axle to move freely in turns and under braking just enough to rear steer the vehicle(the front angles where bang on spec). the two head machines didnt pick this up or the bent right rear rim.you can now see how valuable this info is.... THE PROBLEM is how the shop charges for the alignments. the way i billed out the alignment was a flat rate for an alignment inspection including a visual and the machines printout, and then either a 2 wheel or a 4 wheel adjustment depending on how the vehicle is equipped and what adjustment are required. this way the client only pays for what is needed and the shop gets paid for the work that is being done. Fair and no ones getting away with anything...... Can't argue with anything Mitchy said... And by the way, in terms of vintage VW's, the rear axles most certainly can be, and SHOULD be aligned on all models... Thanks for the info Mitch and Russ. We not "in the trade" so to speak, need to be educated. Most people driving really couldn't care less about what is done to their car, as long as they feel they are being treated fairly. For those of us that do care, we take an interest, but rarely are allowed to see what is being done, talk with the mechanic doing it, or even have it explained to us. When something is referred to as a "simple" procedure by those in the know, us simpletons can misconstrue that into meaning it is simple to do and should take next to no time. That might lead the customer to discount the work or the procedure which often turns out to be incorrect. So thanks for the lesson and advice!
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Post by paolo on Aug 27, 2015 13:21:52 GMT -8
great info (my algnment was on my truck, and it is sweet now)
now for the superbeetle to be aligned!....do i go with experts like bavarian, laird wheaton with a good price or a tire shop like fountain...
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