2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission How to measure caster angle with a tape measure?

[GOT-Torque]

Someone tell me why this would or wouldn't work.



If you want to measure the amount of caster on any vehicle (like my 01 dodge for example) perform the following:



1. Park on a level surface with wheels pointed forward.

2. Using a level, place it on end right behind one of the knuckles on the front axle (making sure it is standing straight up).

3. Using a tape measure, measure the distance from the level to the center of the top balljoint stud and record it.

4. Then measure the distance from the level to the center of the bottom balljoint stud and record it.

5. Then measure the distance between the two balljoint studs from each previous measurement location (for example the end of the studs).

6. Use your math skills to calculate the caster angle.



For example, if you do the drivers side of your vehicle, top measurement may be 8", bottom may be 8. 5", with a distance of 9" between. Use the following formula: tan^-1 ((8. 5-8)/9) = 3. 17 degrees.



If it quits raining, I may try this tonight on my truck and see how it compares to my alignment sheet.



If this does work fairly well, I won't need to get alignments anymore, just do it all at home

 

[CumminsPower98]

I have personally used an angle gauge (round with gravity needle) set on the flat spot on top of the knuckle right next to the upper ball joints. This I think gives the axle caster but will not give the exact caster of the wheels. It seems this would work if the joints were setup with zero degree shims but mine have after market shims to correct camber and set cross caster. I think the way you describe would do about the same thing as I have done although harder at least for me since I'm challenged in the math department. I'm not a front end expert so not sure what I'm doing is even sound...

 

[GOT-Torque]

I haven't tried my method above yet (since I don't have a good level spot at home to do it on). However, I did try using an angle gauge on the bottom of the bottom balljoint, it seems like it may work. I'll have to try it on a level spot and compare it to the readings on the last alignment sheet I got.

 

[B KIRK]

I also used a angle gauge.

Comes in handy for a lot of other uses.

Driveshaft angles, pinion angles, etc.

I have a nice level garage floor.

Used it on the bottom face of the lower ball joint.

Worked for me.



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Brad