Alignment specs

[68conv4sp]

The front end is complete (for now) w/ cut springs, KYBs, 15/16 sway bar, '05Mustang rims and 225/50/16 KDs. What caster, camber, toe settings would be best for Autocross? TIA

 

[2bav8]

Here is what I use:
Caster 3°
Camber -1°
Toe 1/8"

 

[zookeeper]

I use pretty much the same set-up with the exception of camber. I use 1/2 degree negative camber and see no uneven tire wear at all and it keeps the tires away from the fenders as a side bonus. You can't always get the full 3 degrees caster, I wanted 3 but had to settle for 2 1/2. I doubt anyone could tell the difference.

 

[2bav8]

Zoo, do you have adjustable strut rods?

 

[zookeeper]

No, just whatever adjustment is on the stockers. The shop I took it to tried to get 3 degrees, but ran out of adjustment.

 

[2bav8]

Adjustable strut rods, in addition to making the alignment a whole lot easier allow for more caster to be added as the caster is being added via the strut rod itself and not shims. Plus, a heim joint up front eliminates all binding associated with rubber and poly bushings. Its really a win-win situation except for your wallet

 

[68conv4sp]

2bav8, do you mean 1/8" toe out or in? Thanks.

 

[zookeeper]

I'm pretty sure he meant toe-in. Toe in helps the car track straight, caster puts "feel" in the steering at speed as well as helps the steering wheel return to zero after a turn and also helps the car go straight at speed. Lighter faster cars can run a bunch of caster, drag cars easily get away with 15+ degrees. Camber helps keep the tires flat, ensuring maximum grip, during hard cornering. Also, all cars come from the factory with what racers refer to as a "tight" condition, which means that during hard cornering, the front will slide first. This is easier for less skilled drivers to correct during panic situations. The setup 2BAV8 has makes the front stick much better, resulting in a much better handling car, but can make the rear want to slide first in extreme situations. But I for one have never, ever had a car swap ends without lots of throttle and really getting after it. For fun in the twisties, the alignment specs he outlined are about a perfect balance.

 

[Pbum5]

Here is what I use:
Caster 3°
Camber -1°
Toe 1/8"

Do you have the 1" shelby drop to get he -1* camber?

 

[68conv4sp]

I will be happy to avoid swapping ends like my first autocross outing years ago in the Supra (cones everywhere, friends laughing from the sidelines). The Stang is 300 lbs lighter, but has a less sophisticated suspension and an unsophisticated driver. However, there are few sensations like a controlled 4 wheel drift. Can't wait till Sunday in Marina, Central Calif.

 

[2bav8]

My bad, it is 1/8" toe in, thanks Zoo.
Definitely want to use the Shelby drop if handling is important.