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how-to
Dana 30 and
Dana 44 Front Axle Caster Adjustment
Installing
Caster Adjusting
Leaf Spring Wedges aka Shims
A common
practice while installing a lift kit on a leaf spring
equipped CJ is the installation of degree shims. These
shims correct the caster angle by rotating the axle either
clockwise or counter-clockwise. Installation is rather
easy, these shims are placed between the axle mounting perch
and the leaf spring. They are typically made of
aluminum or steel. A downside of these shims is they
can deform over time and/or be the cause of suspension
noise.
typical degree shim
Usually a Jeep
needs an increase in positive caster. (see diagram) As
stated before positive caster allows a wheel to tend to
return to center and reduces the Jeep from wandering down
the road.
In most cases the shim will
be installed into the Jeep by putting the thicker part of
the shim toward the front of the axle, in effect you are
tipping the pinion yoke downward.
Installation
Support the Jeep securely on
jack stands under the frame allowing the front suspension to
hang. Making sure the differential is still supported
by the jack to prevent the differential from tipping
backward. Remove all the u-bolts, insert the degree
shim between the leaf spring and the axle mount perch.
Reinstall all the u-bolts loosely and then tighten them
evenly. Set the Jeep back on all 4 wheels and double
check the bolt tightness. Test drive the Jeep to see
if the caster correction improved or worsened the condition.
Check the u-bolts again after driving a few miles.
Toe,
Caster, and Camber - What does it mean and how to adjust it.
Jeep Steering Alignment
101
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