Camber Adjustment

[heshan]

hi guys,

sorry for the seeming dumb question..

Can the Camber angle be adjusted in a stock AE86?

Also can the Caster angle be adjusted in a stock AE86?

If not what are the minimum upgrades needed to achieve both goals?

[HybriD07]

Camber and caster can not be adjusted on a stock ae86,

for camber you need adjustable camber plates and for caster you need adjustable caster arms

[NoHachi]

Adjustable caster arms are a special case. They allow you to change the static caster (as you would on an allignment machine) but because most of them use a rod-end mounted further outboard then the OEM bushing, they also change your dynamic toe, caster and camber curves. (They effectively change the lower front from an A-arm to a semi-trailing arm). You should really only use them in cases where you believe that a massive amount of caster will be beneficial. If you only intend to run a degree or two, then you are better of without adjustables with some fresh bushings.

Also: If you do intend to run massive caster, please change the inner LCA bushing to a rod end. The caster arm "pulls" the LCA forward. To do this the LCA has to rotate around its mounting bushing. Rotate it to much and the bushing will start to bind.

Most rod-end LCA's are also adjustable for length (and as a result camber too). Its better to use camberplates though as changing the length again changes geometry (Ackerman

For more info see here:
http://forums.hybridz.org/showthread.php?t=106522

Thats a lot of technical, hard to understand reading. End result: bumpsteer. Those who want to experience how bad it can get can join me for a drive in my car. Very difficult to live with on a daily basis on non-smooth roads. The advantages of caster and rod-ends are better noticeable on track...just don't hit a kerb.

[NoHachi]

More reading:
http://forums.hybridz.org/showthread.php?t=106522

Just for reference. AE86 and 240/260/280Z front suspensions are very similar (just mirrored).

(top tip) Use lego to visualise some of this stuff. Becomes immediately obvious

[Apolan]

Can't caster be adjusted on stock? What are those screws on diagonal bars than?

[eight-six]

Yes, you can adjust the caster on the standard suspension set up.

[Apolan]

How much is appropriate for fast road use? Can i just go all the way - i dont think its much anyway.

[eight-six]

I have gone as far as I can go with the castor and the stock tie rods. Generally more castor is preferable for track / grip.

I have heard that this can cause problems drifting, but I still skid mine from time to time and have noticed any issues; but probably not the optimum set up if thats all your interested in.

I did notice that the car was more edgy when drifting with my new alignment set up, but for the track its spot on and thats all I care about.