j4s0n1337

i just replaced my tie rods (inner and outer) on my 95 sedan and my steering wheel was off to the left a little bit and now it's straight. Does that mean i have to adjust the tie rods a little more or could the tie rods be why my wheel wasn't aligned?

TheMuffinMan

iTrader: (1)

You didn't count the number of times you turned/screwed it off/on correctly. Adjusting the tie rod does affect your steering wheel center. I would suggest getting your car aligned.

j4s0n1337

I counted, the outer rod was a bit longer so I compensated for that. Idk what the hell is going on with this car but I'm about on more problem away from selling it, hahaha

seanbev24

Go get it aligned properly. Problem solved.

/Thread.

19Accord97

You should ALWAYS get your vehicle aligned when doing suspension work.

dglassmyer

I just do the kite string technique for adjusting toe.
At least it would get you safely in for a proper alignment.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W8qFjAB67vk

j4s0n1337

I'll have to try that string technique in the morning, would this work even though my steering wheel wasn't aligned to begin with? It was always crooked whenever I would drive straight.

dglassmyer

Yes, just secure the steering wheel level when you set your toe.

scab

love the video, now i know how simple it is.

j4s0n1337

Ohhhhhhhhhhhhhh, okay, I get it now!

sorry guys, my n00b was showing

dglassmyer

Welcome Scab, good to see another user from the DFW area on here, I live in Denton.

To the OP, the most important thing to watch for when setting toe in this manner is that your tires are able to "slide" on the tiles.
You want to make the point they rest on the tiles as friction free as possible, I even put down lithium grease to help them move easier.
What you want to be able to see is the small adjustments made on the tie rods reflected in the wheels position in relation to the string.
If you notice your making several turns of the tie rod, and the wheel isn't moving, its likely because your tires have too much traction.
I have even considered making myself some homemade alignment plates, the kind you see on alignment racks at shops which are perfectly friction free.
Good luck.