re: aligning a quattro

[quk@isham-research.demon.co.uk (Phil Payne)]

In message <0.95b03e69.25374d25@aol.com> C1J1Miller@aol.com writes:

> Does Audi "align" a new built vehicle, or just assume that manufacturing
> tolerances will make it "spot on"?  Do they check the alignment after 1500 km
> of use, or can they assume how much the suspension will settle?
> When they align, do they discount runout in rims/tires? or average it?
> I assume the factory spec is set for straight flat roads, no crown (otherwise
> the spec would vary side to side, or at least between UK and USA vehicles),
> and midpoint in the allowable weight load (to account for changes due to
> suspension load of an driver-only versus fully-loaded vehicle).

I suspect they stick to the specifications they give in the service
manuals.  There's a 'suspension and alignment check' in the 1500 mile
service.  I don't think road camber (crown) and the driver's weight
play a major role - when the car is experiencing a significant sideways
G, the angle of the road surface will contribute very little.

--
 Phil Payne
 UK Audi quattro Owners Club
 Phone: 07785 302803   Fax: 0870 0883933