Pre-Alignment Checks

1980 Chevrolet Forward Control 5.7L Eng VIN M, Automatic Trans, Trans Mfr CD 400/M40SECTION Pre-Alignment Checks
NOTE: Before making wheel alignment adjustments, perform the following checks.
  1. Wheel bearings must be properly adjusted.
  2. Steering linkage and suspension must not have excessive looseness. Check for wear in tie rod ends and ball joints.
  3. Tires should be approximately equal in tread wear and runout must not be excessive. Tires and wheels should be in balance, and inflated to manufacturer's specifications.
  4. Vehicle must be at curb height with full fuel load, no passenger load, spare tire in place but no extra load in vehicle.
  5. Vehicle must be on level floor with suspension settled. Bounce front and rear of vehicle several times and allow it to settle to normal running height.
  6. If steering wheel is not centered with front wheels in straight ahead position, correct by shortening one tie rod adjusting sleeve and lengthening opposite sleeve equal amounts.
  7. Ensure wheel lug nuts are tightened to manufacturer's specifications.
WHEEL LUG NUTS TIGHTENING SPECIFICATIONS

Application Ft. Lbs.
Chevrolet & GMC
  C, P & G10 & G20 75-100
  All K Models 70-90
  C, P, & G30
    W/Single Rear Wheels 90-120
  C, P & G30
    W/Dual Rear Wheels 110-140
    W/Dual Rear Wheels & 5/8" Studs 130-180
Dodge & Plymouth
  All W & D Models
    W/Cone Type Nut
      1/2"-20 105
      5/8"-18 200
    W/Flanged Type Nut 325
  All B, CB, MB & PB Models
    W/Cone Type Nut
      1/2"-20 85-125
      5/8"-18 175-225
    W/Flanged Type Nut 300-325
Ford Motor Co.
  All Models
    1/2"-20 90
    9/16"-18 W/Single Rear Wheels 145
    9/16"-18 W/Dual Rear Wheels 220
International Harvester
  1/2"-20 Nuts 65-90
Jeep
  All Models (Exc. J20 Truck) 75
  J20 Truck 130
RENDER: 1.0x

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.