[Watersidef30]

I'd like to check the front wheel alignment on the f30. Do the string methods actually work for checking at home?

[HighlandPete]

Originally Posted by Watersidef30

I'd like to check the front wheel alignment on the f30. Do the string methods actually work for checking at home?

I guess you are wanting to get a rough idea if the tracking (toe-in) is in tolerance. If you know the settings and set out the lines accordingly, you can be pretty accurate.

I've used string lines on my current F11 and checked out front and rear toe-in. I have set out the dimensions with CAD (to save the maths), works well if you set the lines at wheel center height (I use axle stands) and run parallel lines along the car as the references. Set the lines from center caps and to body positions, to double check line positions. Then measure in to rim edges for alignment settings.

[Watersidef30]

I ran a tyre on low pressure for a long time. The left edge had also worn.
Had a new tyre fitted so wanted to check if tracking is out or it was because the tyre was low pressure.

Hate going to garages just for a check. They are Just as likely to say it's out even if it isn't.
For armed is forwarned I guess.

Does the steering wheel have to be straight to check? How can you tell if it's perfectly straight?

[HighlandPete]

Originally Posted by Watersidef30

...Hate going to garages just for a check. They are Just as likely to say it's out even if it isn't.
For armed is forwarned I guess.

Does the steering wheel have to be straight to check? How can you tell if it's perfectly straight?

Yes, you want the steering wheel in mid position, as it is when driving straight ahead. (I assume it is running without a left or right bias when driving straight). If your lines are parallel, you should have equal toe-in each side.

[Watersidef30]

Yes it runs straight.
I'll give it a try! Thanks