Have '02 WRX-Wagon that needs 4-wheel alignment and the catch is that it has STI springs so most shops I have talked to cannot peform due to non-available spec's for this set-up. Do not totally understand this, but am looking for a reputable alignment shop to resolve pulling issues. Also, front rotors are warped so was going to replace instead of turn. Does it pay to get non-OEM rotors since calipers will not be replaced with better equipment? If non-OEM is better then who would you recommend and why? Thanks.
The alignment should not be a problem. Who ever you are talking to is stupid. You may not be able to get the camber perfect but STI springs are not much lower then stock. As for rotors. Non oem rotors are fine. Just don't buy the lowest priced ones. And don't buy ones with holes in them. IE drilled rotors.
I keep seeing that Jeff the Alignment guy is highly recommended. I need one, too, and am planning to contact him soon about scheduling & price. http://www.mnsubaru.com/forums/showthread.php?t=25535&highlight=jeff+alignment+guy http://www.mnsubaru.com/forums/showthread.php?t=23577&highlight=jeff+alignment+guy http://www.thealignmentguy.com/
even tho you may be able to get it close or in spec like iroc-z says it wont be right. the angles are changed since the car is lowered i'd take it to jeff.
That advice piddster just threw you was great. Its understated there how important getting those bolts will be if you want to get a proper "spec" alignment. I have a lot of negative camber on my rear wheels because I dont have the bolts. I have aggressive wheels however, so I need the room for uptravel that the alignment I have gives me. I would DEFINITELY get camber bolts if you want anything near a stock alignment.
Where's a guy/gal get rear camber bolts, anyway? I hear about them a lot but never see them for sale - vendor or private.
You buy regular camber bolts and replace the upper strut bolt on the rears. Viola, you now can adjust rear camber.
You can get Eibach and other brands of camber bolts for under $30. One google search usually yeilds good results.
http://store.summitracing.com/partd...907499+4294907498+4294925130+115&autoview=sku they are a pain to align perfectly since the bolt and washer like to spin together. It's the cheapest option tho. Otherwise you can get camber plates or adjustable lateral links.
The washer usually has a tab so it rotates with the bolt. You can usually tell where the eccentric part is by the washer.
Jeff loves these, by the way. Although I seem to remember he's not overly fond of installing them. But he is now very *experienced* at installing them Stuart.
Do adjustable links sieze up, or strip out ever? The guy I got my alignment done by in fargo suggested I get some to fix my goofy rear camber (-1.7 on one side, -1.2 on the other), but for a car that gets DD'ed all winter long, and rallycrossed, I have some reservations on durability.
Yup, I'm saying, after you have the camber you want and go to torque everything to spec. The tabbed washer likes to slip off the eccentric part of the bolt. Very hard to get perfect... Jeff hates these, stooooooo:biggrin:
Yeah, I won't argue that. I've had to fight with mine. I also learned that they don't like several winters either. I have one that will not move, even with an 800 lb-ft impact. I do want some adjustable lateral links, but the few companies that make them are awfully proud of them and seem to ask an arm and a leg for them. I suppose I could just make my own...
Thanks for all the advice. Appreciate all the great feedback so now I just have to get some things fixed. Exhaust up and front pipe needs gaskets so working on that at the moment.
Or go to a shop that stocks cam bolts and has lots of experience aligning lowered vehicles, like....Oh, maybe Centerline off of 61 & 694. Only down side is my alignment guy just went on vacation for a few days. But we have done a lot of Subarus with mods. Used to align a bunch for that snake at WMC, but DO NOT ASSOCIATE US WITH HIM AT ALL!!! We aligned them or told him why we couldn't (usually damage). btw- he still owes us money too. Howie
Napa usually has camber bolts.... also if you want stock specs then yeah maybe they couldnt get it but ANYONE who can look at a machine can set a bar graph to a certain spec regardless....
Making Progress on this beast.... Have appointment with Jeff so will be glad to get the pulling resolved. Thanks for the recommendation. Took care of the exhaust leaks by installing gaskets and put new rotors and ceramic pads on the front so relieved to finally make some progress on these little issues. Oh Yeah, MOLYKOTE should be everybody's friend since I had to get a large breaker bar to remove bolts securing the caliper support bracket(housing) which was rusted on like it had been driven in the ocean or seen alot of road salt.
