Joined: Sat Mar 29 2008, 03:36PM
Location: North eastern Wis.
Posts: 1638
Our, new to us, min has a problem with the alignment. During travel the steering wheel needs just the slightest effort holding the wheel towards the curb, in order to go straight. The front right tire is wearing out the outer edge of the new tire very rapidly. Looks like maybe the other side is wearing as well, but not as fast. Also during maneuvering such as parking, the power system groans slightly as if it's working against itself. Fluid level is fine. Does anyone have advice on how to adjust the components up front to get a better alignment. Thanks in advance for any input.
Joined: Mon Jan 25 2010, 02:40PM
Location: Bethel Park PA
Posts: 846
Find a reputable front end alignment shop in your area and have them go over it. The previous owner may have replaced tie rod ends or struts and didn't bother to get it aligned. Being you just got the van, an alignment will assure you it will steer straight & not prematurely wear out tires. As for the power steering, the pump may be getting a little weak. I have used Lucas Power Steering Conditioner in older, noisy pumps & it has helped tremendously. Follow the directions on the bottle. Hope this info helps. Good luck.
Joined: Sat Mar 29 2008, 03:36PM
Location: North eastern Wis.
Posts: 1638
Thanx I was hoping to avoid the expense of a shop. How complicated can these be? Figured someone might have some experience with them. I might try the pump goop after alignment is corrected...
Joined: Fri Mar 13 2009, 11:21AM
Location: San Marcos, CA
Posts: 713
Wear on the outside of both tires usually indicates the toe is set with the tires too close to each other at the front. You can spin the tires and put chalk on the tire all the way around then take a screw driver and make a line in the chalk. Put the tires back down on the ground, roll the van a little bit forward and back then measure at the front and rear of the tire, the difference is the "tow in" it should be a very small amount closer (maybe 1/16" to 1/8") in the front, adjust by turning the tie rod sleeves. Don't forget to tighten the sleeve nuts when you have it correct. I hope this helps My $.02
Joined: Sat Mar 29 2008, 03:36PM
Location: North eastern Wis.
Posts: 1638
Thanks for the replies Gentlemen.
I figured toe in and when I looked in the book it states this is the only adjustment on these vehicles. I like the chalk line idea. Much more precise than just measuring the outer edge. I'll let you know how it goes, and thanks for the balancing tip. Hadn't thought of that. Grand Ma has the kids so trying to get the van from her is now my biggest obstacle. I think she believes maintenance is just an over rated past time.
Joined: Sat Mar 29 2008, 03:36PM
Location: North eastern Wis.
Posts: 1638
Well GrandMa took the chillin' to the beach. So I finally got some time to look at the minivan, I used the chalk as suggested by 66 monaco 500 The tires were almost 3/4s of an inch off, front to back. I adjusted the tie rod ends and it rides sooooo much better. No more groaning from the steering and no more pulling to the right. I'll be watching the tread for wear. So far I am very happy with the ride.