1997 Ford Escort alignment question

1997 FORD ESCORT

180,000 MILES

KBOURASSA

MEMBER
12 POSTS

in order to do an alignment do i need to replace the rear stuts or is it possible to do the alignment without them replaced, ford is trying to tell me i need to replace them before i do an alignment. the rear stuts are damaged but i didnt think that would affect the alignment or it to be done.

if you could reply back that would be great i just dont want to have to pay for parts if i dont need to.

thanks, Karin

Jun 2, 2013 at 6:16 AM

SINBAD271

✓Experienced Mechanic
169 POSTS

A front end alignment can be done with out setting the rear. One would think to set the toe and center the steering wheel and advise the customer of damage issue to the rear and still make the sale.

Jun 2, 2013 at 6:35 AM

WRENCHTECH

✓Experienced Mechanic
20,760 POSTS

It really depends on exactly what is wrong with the struts. If there is any sort of situation that the struts are allowing height changes, it will effect the wheel alignment in both front and rear so they would be correct..

Jun 2, 2013 at 6:59 AM

KBOURASSA

MEMBER
12 POSTS

well you know when you do the bounce test to see how many times it bounces it goes over 2 bounces and by damaged means its either leaking or cracked springs or worn bushings im not 100% sure what the problem is with my rear struts all i know is that when i have weight in my back seat it squeaks as well as going over bumps

Jun 11, 2013 at 11:36 AM

WRENCHTECH

✓Experienced Mechanic
20,760 POSTS

If they are failing the bounce test, then the height is constantly changing going down the road. Every time the height changes, the alignment angles change so you cannot get an accurate alignment.

Jun 11, 2013 at 11:41 AM

KBOURASSA