Need some advice on alignment specifications (Page 1/1)
Rickady88GT OCT 01, 08:58 PM
Hey, I have not had an alignment done on my 88GT in years. It doesn't feel as crisp as it used to and I will look over and retorque bolts and inspect what I can. But I do want to do an alignment because I have taken the rear cradle out and haven't done a proper alignment.
Any advice on a lowered 88GT with power steering would be great. It is not a race car, so I would like to align it for best handling and comfort at this lowered ride hight. I don't remember exactly how low I dropped it, but an inch and a half sounds about right in the rear, may 2 in the front. The 88s had a higher front, I have a rake in the front now.
Thanks, Rick
olejoedad OCT 02, 08:12 AM
The OEM specs should be used for alignment, whether the car is lowered or not.
fierofool OCT 02, 10:06 AM
Also, the 88 specs recommends jouncing the front end at least 3 times after each time the front wheels are lifted off the alignment machine. This apparently helps it to settle back down.
Dennis LaGrua OCT 02, 02:04 PM
Misalignment can not only be caused by use but also caused by worn tie rods, rod ends, rack bushings and ball joints. The first thing that I would check are the rack bushings. On the 88's they were a type of plastic and after 32 years you can expect some wear. Jack the car up, support it SAFELY, one wheel at a time, then try to grab the tires and wiggle the front wheels while the steering is locked and then the rear wheels to see if there is any movement. Not the best way to test but any rattling of the parts will give an indication of excessive wear.

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" THE BLACK PARALYZER" -87GT 3800SC Series III engine, custom ZZP /Frozen Boost Intercooler setup, 3.4" Pulley, Northstar TB, LS1 MAF, 3" Spintech/Hedman Exhaust, P-log Manifold, Autolite 104's, MSD wires, Custom CAI, 4T65eHD w. custom axles, Champion Radiator, S10 Brake Booster, HP Tuners VCM Suite.
"THE COLUSSUS"
87GT - ALL OUT 3.4L Turbocharged engine, Garrett Hybrid Turbo, MSD ign., modified TH125H
" ON THE LOOSE WITHOUT THE JUICE "

cvxjet OCT 02, 06:08 PM
A) Here is the alignment specs out of the manual.....



B) Lowering the car an inch will not make any big difference as far as alignment is concerned.....The stock specs are generally good to go.

C) If you want to improve handling a bit, go with more negative camber up front (If possible- 84-87 you would have to use an aftermarket BJ which is designed to allow Neg' Camber) and especially more POSITIVE caster.....this will make the front tires stick a bit better and aid turn-in...also better return in the steering.

[This message has been edited by cvxjet (edited 10-02-2021).]

Rickady88GT OCT 03, 12:58 PM
Thanks for the input, much appreciated