Alignment Systems for 914? Options

[bkrantz]

Short version: what shop alignment systems work for 914s?

Longer version: My 1973 2.0 is almost stock, with standard fenders and 4 bolt Fuchs. The suspension is also near stock, with Bilsteins all around, stock (original) torsion bars up front, and 100 lb springs in the rear. I have 195/65-15 tires. Ride height is slightly lowered.

When I finished rebuilding the car I did a home alignment and then headed to the only local shop that has 914 experience (and positive recommendations). But after they had my car on their alignment rack for about 20 minutes, the tech came to tell me that he could not complete the job, because the rigs that mounts on the front wheels hit the fenders as he pivoted the wheels for getting caster. He spent a bit more time and measured F and R camber and toe, but then sent me home.

After that I did my own alignment as precisely as I could, with double and triple measurement. Al of this was in July and August of 2022, and I have been driving the car since then. It tracks well, and turns in easily--perhaps too easily. It seems very sensitive to small steering inputs at speed.

So I would like to see about getting a shop to take a look, but knowing what systems, new or old, will likely work will help.

[Superhawk996]

There is an enormous variation in how heads mount to the wheel / rim.

Since you don’t mention what they used, I’m guessing it was the old style heads with hooks and a rack type screw clamp that grabs the wheel rim lip. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/confused24.gif) Most shops have an assortment of head adapters & extensions that should allow them to extend heads outboard if they are hitting the body. Skill of the shop always supersedes how fancy their equipment may look.

Hunter Hawkeye heads that grab the tire should be able to be mounted by a tech that knows what he’s doing.

[bkrantz]

There is an enormous variation in how heads mount to the wheel / rim.

Since you don’t mention what they used, I’m guessing it was the old style heads with hooks and a rack type screw clamp that grabs the wheel rim lip. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/confused24.gif) Most shops have an assortment of head adapters & extensions that should allow them to extend heads outboard if they are hitting the body. Skill of the shop always supersedes how fancy their equipment may look.

Hunter Hawkeye heads that grab the tire should be able to be mounted by a tech that knows what he’s doing.

I wish I knew which brand and model the shop used--I need to call them and ask.