So, i was reading some recent posts on IFS vs SA. One of them was giving IFS credit, and i tend to agree. However, our International Scout does not need alignments like the ones given on the IFS trucks. It has a tow-in adjustment, and that's all, or so the guy at the shop claims. So i'm wondering, do SA trucks need alignments? Cause if not, a SA would save me a TON of money. My truck needs to be aligned at least 2 or 3 times a year, depending on how many rocks or pot holes i hit.

 

just toe in and toe out. very easy to do.

 

Yep, not too hard to set toe in:

http://www.4crawler.com/4x4/CheapTri...html#Alignment

Usually once set, it should stay set unless something works loose or bends up front.

There is also caster angle that you'll probably have to have a shop check for you but then it is easy to correct with shims:

http://www.4crawler.com/4x4/ForSale/Shims.shtml

Usually caster is only an issue if you have changed something up front like longer spring shackles, different springs, etc. Camber angle is fixed by the axle. If you have a ball joint front axle, then wear in those parts can affect alignment,

 

If you're only worried about saving money on alignments, Firestone tire shops have a lifetime alignment service for like $150. Buy the lifetime alignment and you can go in for a free alignment any time you want as long as you own the truck.

 

Maybe you should consider an IFS brace (if you don't already have one). Sofar my last alignment was the one before I put it on.

 

I've never heard of that before, but i'm going to check it out VERY soon.

Yes, i need to get one. I've just not done much research. I've only been able to find the downey one, but if there are more, please let me know. From what i've read around here, the downey one has problems fitting properly. Plus, i'm getting less and less impressed with downey. We'll see though.

 

quick ? Anyone know if the firestone lifetime alignment cant be used for any car you have? I bought one for a 87 pickup I had then right after that the truck was totaled

 

yeah, I actually found out about it from an earlier post on here. So I went ahead and got it when I bought my current set of tires.


I'm thinking it's just for the vehicle you buy it for. But you never know, might be worth checking out.

 

My local Firestone doesn't align lifted SUVs.

 

Well, i have BJ spacers, and i doubt they'd notice those. Anyone have experience with those support braces? Are there any others out there?