what is actually done when I pay $93.74 for a front end alignment on my 98 4X4 3.0 xlt?? what is it "THEY" actually did?! Can/will someone walk me through this? thanks in advance.

 

I'm not sure what is all involved on the 4x4. On a 98 2 wheel drive with the coil spring suspension, there is no caster/camber adjustments. All they do is adjust the toe in, something that can easily be done at home.

 

Maybe not.. it is possible to adjust camber/caster if an adjustment kit has already been installed onto the upper control arms...

Do you happen to have a copy of the alignment printout handy? That will tell us what has been done. If you want post it and I'll decode it for you.

 

well i haven't had it done yet. I'm shopping around for the cheapest service. I just want to know what it is they adjust? what they do and how they do it. does any one know for sure?

 

Do you even need an alignment?

Does it pull one way or another?

Are your tires wearing funny? For that matter, are your tires inflated properly?

You really gotta whack something to throw your alignment out.

 

Last year I had my 2001 3.0 4x4 aligned. Cost me $75 and from what I can tell they really were only able to adjust the toe. The caster/camber adjustments needed an adjustment kit installed for more added expense (can't remember how much more but it seemed like it was enough). I told them to check the alignment first and see if the kit was even needed. Turned out everything was within spec on the caster/camber adjustments so I passed on the install, maybe next time I won't be so lucky. I'm not a fan of this nickel & diming Ford is pulling on us but I was assured by the alignment guys that all the car companies are doing it. I can't verify that because all I have is Fords.

 

$93.74 is pretty darn steep for just an alignment. I get mine done for $40 her in So Cal. For that amount, better be replacing parts...