Crooked Axle Beam?

[jonwillrob]

Hey guys, this is my first post, just wanted to get some input. I recently got an alignment on my '94 Explorer. The guy who did the alignment said he wasn't able to get it perfectly aligned because it seemed to him that the passenger side I-Beam was slightly bent, so he could only get it to within 1 degree of what it should be. It does drive alot better now but after looking things over I noticed that the passenger beam was noticeably crooked in relation to the bracket at the axle pivot point. Also the pivot bushings on both axle beams seem "loose" around the bolt they ride on, though the drivers side beam isn't crooked like the passenger side. After seeing this I plan to replace the bushings regardless, but do you think this is why he thought the axle beam seemed bent? Also do you think new poly bushings will straighten it out inside the bracket? Sorry for the lengthy post but its hard to explain without pictures. Any input would be appreciated

 

[Number4]

Use photobucket to post pictures. Makes a big difference when we can visualize the issue.

 

[natenkiki2004]

It could be that those axle bushings are toast. The alignment guy should have been able to tell you that though, unless he's not familiar with the TTB setup. Even then, it doesn't take a mechanic to realize all the pivot points of the suspension.

Upload some pics, it'll be interesting to see what you have. I don't think I've read about a bent axle beam before.

 

[jonwillrob]

Yeah I agree, and doubt that the actual beam could be bent. The alignment guy certainly was knowledgeable, but after looking at the pivot bushings I'm suprised he didn't notice it. But hey, neither did I, until after the fact. I'm gonna pick up some bushings today but ill post the pics when I get to my computer so you guys can see. My phone wont upload them for some reason