wheel alignment question

[sonoramicommando]

Hi all,

I got a new set of XZX's (eye watering price for 70's technology tyres, really) so I thought I'd make the most out of them and got wheel alignment done yesterday.
They told me though, because of non-removable spats on rear guards, they can't put the alignment thingamyjiggy on the rear wheels and can't do the alignments. And as no adjustments on the rear anyway, it's not a big deal, I've been told.
What's you guys' take on this?

Also, GSA sinks when engine is not running, I got them to have the engine idling while they were on the job. Is this normal for all sinker Citroens?

Cheers,
Sam

[elma]

Old fashioned Vernier tracking gauges only use the front wheels anyway, maybe worth tracking down someone with these to double check? Generally HGV mechanics have a set as they track multiple steering wheels and have no rears for reference.

I always had my sinker Xantia tracked idling, I think the correct procedure was quite specific about how to get the suspension and bushes into a neutral position but it's so long ago I don't remember clearly other than the rolling it back and forth as with all cars.

[sonoramicommando]

Thanks Elma,
Much appreciated.

[Stonehopper]

Had the tracking done on the GS a year ago and they managed to get their laser kit on all four wheels with a bit of fiddling.

[red_dwarfers]

I'm pretty sure Mid Devon Tyres managed to get their four wheel laser tracking gear onto my GSA. I had to give them the tracking information though as their sheets didn't quite go back far enough (even the ones they store in the cupboard!)

[sonoramicommando]

thanks for the response guys - i thought there would be a way to do it, i mean they built quite a few GS/A after all...

[Peter.N.]

I always do my tracking with a threaded rod slid inside a length of steel electrical conduit. Adjust the length so it just touches the widest part of the tyre about level with the bottom of the wheel, a brick is about the right height, slide it to the back of the wheel and observe the gap or other wise, about 1mm is about right for most wheels with tow in. Been doing this for about 40 years and always get nice even tyre wear.

Peter