97 Aerostar E-4WD camber issue.

[tagnamee]

I recently had work done to replace worn busings on the front right suspension. When I received the van back after the replacement work and alignment, the front right tire had a camber issue. The top of the tire was tilted in and the bottom out. Although I took this back to the shop, they confirmed back to me that they adjusted it as far as they could. Could I get some viewpoints here? I am thinking they either did not repair it properly or maybe broke something during the repair of the upper control arm bushings? Do I need to take this to an expert? Any help or suggestions would be appreciated.

Bob G

 

[BrooklynBay]

Welcome to this forum! The easiest way to tell if it's in the proper position without connecting it to an alignment machine is to check the area where it's mounted. You will see a mark left from the old position.

 

[DoOver]

Make sure it's not a wheel bearing {hub assembly} problem. Sounds like you need another shop for a free estimate.
Brian

 

[tagnamee]

Responses

I've replaced the wheel bearings before and am familiar with the assembly. I don't believe they are in question. I watched the guys in the shop work on the front end the second time I brought it back for the camber issue. They appeared to struggle with loostening the nuts (Saw a huge breaker bar and a torch used). When I started to research this issue, I came across a site with a special wrench needed to perform caster/camber adjustments on 4WD/AWD Fords. I also read along the way that the bolts holding down the upper contriol arm also were tied into the engine mounts possibly creating another dynamic to overcome, when tightening down the bolts. Do either of you know if there is a cam adjuster or is it simply a slot? I have a few miles on the van and it is the first time I am having this issue. Any thoughts?? Are special tools essential to accomplishing this job? If I needed to look at former bolt head positions, where exactly do I need to look?

Thanks for the replies.

Bob G

 

[BrooklynBay]

The bolts have a limited amount of room to adjust in a slot going through the frame. The engine mounts are not affected in any way. I have the tool you are referring to. It makes the job much easier. Here is my product review: http://www.explorerforum.com/reviewpost/showproduct.php/product/347/cat/500

 

[tagnamee]

The Fix

Idiots, took it to another place. Another $40 and some shims and all was well again. No trouble from the mechanics, no breaker bars or torches. I have started to tell everyone that there are a whole lot of people in this world that absolutely no idea what they are talking about. Its a shame!

 

[BrooklynBay]

Thanks for the update! Did they use an electronic alignment machine in the last shop?

 

[tagnamee]

I don't recall. The shims provided gross alignment. The old ones must have rotted out before I had the rubber replaced in the front suspension.

 

[FORDBOYpete]

:thumbdwn: I think what's even worse is all the Bozo's who talk a good story but are far from qualified, reliable, good "wrenches". How many people do they place in danger? How many do they rip off out of ignorance? How many innocent and trusting customers get taken annually by them?
FBp