i'm replacing front tires on my 1997 f250 heavy duty FWD. they're showing wear on the inside of the tire so i want to have the alignment done as well (hasn't been done since i got the truck few years ago). truck has stock suspension. took it to a local shop to get a price on the alignment. the price is $90 but then the mechanic said if offset cams are needed then it's $150 a piece.

i tried googling offset cams, alignment cams, camber bolts, etc, but i'm not getting any answers. i did see that camber bolts run about $50. so now i'm a bit confused by the quote i was given.

can someone explain this to me? i want to be a little more educated when i head back to the shop. what's the deal with these camber alignment bolts?

thanks in advance!

 

He's talking about offset camber bushings, they go below the castle nut of your upper ball joints, from spring wear your tires probably look like this viewed from the front, / \, unless it's lifted, then it's probably like this \ /.

 

Normally they wont need to change them unless youve done something pretty major to the front end, lift, lower, etc.

 

no changes to the suspension. it's stock. new shocks and springs were replaced a while back when i first bought it.
i'm taking it to a shop someone on this board recommended (the front end shop in nj). i may pay a premium but sounds like i'll at least get quality service. i know what work has been done to the truck so hopefully they won't try to recommend replacement of parts not needed...