alignment shop?
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From: San Diego, Ca
Originally Posted by rlaifatt,Aug 8 2006, 03:36 PM
Just read this thread and thought I would comment since I do my own alignments. A good alignment is worth a lot of money as it is critical to performance. Although the computer print out may say they adjusted it to a certain set of specs, I've have countless experiences where the end performance said they were wrong. The alignment equipment needs to be properly calibrated (they will always say it's been recently calibrated, but I doubt it), and the tech needs to know how to properly use the equipment (proper set-up is key, and settling the suspension after each adjustment) so you don't get incorrect readings, and then they need to take the time to torque the adjustments bolts properly to keep it in spec. It'a also an iterative process that can take a lot of time to get right if done properly, because changing one aspect affects others etc., and most shops will only spend x-amount of time because they have other appointments, and if they don't get what you want by then they say something is wrong with your car (not with their skill) why it can't be done. Specific experience doing an S2000 is also important because most techs don't have a clue what direction to turn the bolts on our cars. I became so frustrated (plus it's a PITA to trailer a racecar to a shop multiple times a year for an alignment) that I had to learn to do it the old-fashioned way, like most all racer/race teams, using string-box, protractors etc. Then I know it's done right, though it's a lot of work. I'm not saying there aren't good shops though, like Clarence Brown abd West End in Gardena. I know of racers who tow their car for hours to a good shop just to get a proper alignment.
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From: National City CA
Originally Posted by IIGQ4U,Aug 8 2006, 05:16 PM
How long does it take you guys to self align your cars anyway?
it's a all night deal.
Joined: Jan 2002
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From: Encinitas (San Diego), CA
Yeah, anywhere from couple hours to all day depending on how many adjustments, which is often unpredictable at the start. As I said, there are some very good shops, and probably many other adequae shops (for street), and then there are incompetent shops. If you find a reasonable one and get to know the tech, then probably good to keep going there.
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From: National City CA
I would say the #1 thing in a aligmnent is geting a good baceline that is knowing where all your seting are at. and that is what will take you the most time to get. after you have your bace line you can start to make changes and see if the car works better or not. but you need a baceline to have a setup to back to if your new setup is not working.
Joined: Jan 2002
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From: Encinitas (San Diego), CA
Originally Posted by Fusion_Saleen,Aug 8 2006, 05:36 PM
I would say the #1 thing in a aligmnent is geting a good baceline that is knowing where all your seting are at. and that is what will take you the most time to get. after you have your bace line you can start to make changes and see if the car works better or not. but you need a baceline to have a setup to back to if your new setup is not working.