Rear Axel location- How critical is a 1/8-1/4

difference in the axel location on the rear springs?

In putting the truck back together, I measured the location of the rear axel using several cross members and fixed points on the frame. It seems that the left side of the axel is about 1/8 to 1/4 further back than the right side of the axel.

The axel is being located by the whole/bolt head on the welded plate on the axel and the spring.

Hope this makes sense?

Your ideas?

Haasman

 

I crunched the numbers and 1/4" misalignment at the rear axle will make the truck "dog track" about 5/8", meaning when your driving straight the front end will be offset from the rear end about 5/8".

 

thanks for that checking.

So if you were checking/double-checking a rear axel location, how would you do it? In other words what would you use as reference points?

Haasman

 

Find a rivet that is in the same spot on both sides of the frame towards the front, then measure in an X pattern to see if the rear end is sitting square. You can measure the frame also to see if it's square.

 

Great, thanks for the suggestions.

Haasman

 

I'd also check it relative to the front axle c/l. In regards to tracking, the front and rear axles need to be parrallel for the truck to track straight down the highway, or roadway, or driveway .

 

Thanks, Of course! Thats a good reminder.

Haasman