I finished replacing front-end components - removal, cleaning, painting UCA & LCA both sides, new coil springs, new ball joints, new bushings, new idler arm, etc. I own the CSM & I am aware of the OEM specifications. Historically, based upon some thread research, there is a modest delta regarding what members prefer for caster, camber & toe. I believe the CSM OEM specs apply to bias-ply tires and not radial ply tires; although, I'm in my warm home while the CSM is in the man-cave and I'm heading out the door for an appointment.

QUESTION: What, in your opinion, are good caster, camber & toe specifications for the 71 CS A-Body? I'm going to setup an alignment appointment with my tire/alignment shop. Thanks.

 

As much positive caster as you can get exactly the same on both sides, .5* negative camber, and 1/16 toe in.

 

Eric, thanks so much.

 

X2 on this.

 

Thanks to both of you for chiming in. I just took it for a ride after the rebuild - 1/4 out & 1/4 mile back . Handles like a brand new car - what a difference. Alignment scheduled for tomorrow. Currently I set the toe-in to 1/64" as best I could pulling measurements on my own - does not waver the slightest. Looking forward to testing the rear end with the new aftermarket rear LCA, UCA and sway bar after alignment - a bit more vigorously.

 

Nice work Norm and quickly too I might add. Thanks also to Eric and Joe also. This one's going in my subscribed folder fellas.

 

Sounds good Norm. I would try that also. I remember about the most caster thing. As I said earlier I had my Cutlass set at the factory settings and I think it would drive better with more caster. I also remember back when we did alignments back in the 80's, setting in just a little more caster in the left to try to keep the car from drifting to the right because of the road crown. We had a "old master" who never even looked at specs, He just said to align the cars with the same caster side to side or a little more on the left . Very few "come backs" doing his "specs". I would do it as Eric and Joe said and if it does drift a little then make small adjustments to caster. Let us know how it goes. I am glad you like your new springs!

 

Thanks guys.

 

Winter Project - '71 CS Suspension

 

i brought my 72 in last year, i talked to the owner about the alignment previous to the work and asked about the increased caster. He agreed the increased caster is helpful and should be used on these older cars.
I had mine done and i am happy w the results. I redid my front and rear suspension w all new bushngs and bearings as well as a fast ration steering box.

 

That's good info. The steering box appears to me to be functioning very well. I did make some slight adjustments to the over-center which helped. I was doing some research on CO in earlier months regarding steering boxes and looked at the fast ratio boxes. That sounds like a nice set up.