Posted by Carter Shore
on 6/28/2009, 4:43 pm, in reply to "Re: Tire wear"
72.185.97.171
You have described a classic case of tire wear due to excessive toe-in.
ISTR that the factory setting is 1/16", but it's not that critical, +- 1/16" is OK. With the kind of wear you are seeing, it's probably at 1/4" or worse, enough to see with the naked eye.
The checking or flat spots are typical of of loose or worn front bearings, but if you have too much front toe, that tend to would magnify any front bearing issues.
Setting front toes is not hard. A couple of common pins and a steel tape measure are all that's required. Push the pins 1/4" into a tread block on the trailing side of each tire, such that the tape will run under the car, and measure. Carefully roll the car forward until the pins are in the leading position, and measure again. The front measurement should be 1/16" less than the rear. Loosen the pinch clamps where the steering boots attach to the steering tie rods, and use a couple of wrenches to loosen the jab nuts. Rotate the tie rod equally on both sides, and check again. Repeat as needed. When the desired setting is achieved, tighten everything up, and remove the pins.
Good luck!
Carter
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