Most Ford trucks of that era used the I-beam front suspension system. That is a really tough system, but is the worst one for tire wear and comfort. Caster and camber are not adjustable except with really extreme measures, and camber, which has the biggest effect on tire wear, changes greatly with changes in suspension ride height. Normally we would readjust camber over time as the front springs sag with age, but it isn't practical to do that on these truck models. All you can adjust is "toe", the direction the wheels are steering. In this case all the models call for 1/32" toe-in. That only changes when tie rod ends are replaced. There are other parts that may change how the axle is moved left or right a little. Total toe will still be the same, but that can put the steering wheel off-center a little. To correct that, toe on each side is readjusted, but you'll still have that 1/32" toe-in when you're done.
In later years, Ford switched to the more comfortable upper and lower control arms. With that "short / long arm", (SLA) system, camber and caster are adjustable. Slightly-sagged springs can be adjusted for, and tire wear will be better than with the solid I-beam axle.
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Wednesday, August 21st, 2019 AT 4:40 PM
