I'm prepping for a front axle service and want to check/set knuckle centering and preload while in there. I've started looking for Knuckle centering tools and/or alternative procedures for setting centering. I know most folks just replace the shims that came out but my axle/knuckles have a mixed up history, didn't come from the factory together and likely are not setup correctly.
Thanks for any information or links to threads on these topics.
- Can anyone provide part numbers for centering tools that will work or sources that represent best price? My quick search puts these around $300 to $400 which is more than I like to pay for what's likely a single-use tool. Anyone want to rent one of these to me? I'll be gentle and won't put a hammer to it
- Can anyone suggest alternatives to buying the centering tool, like loaner tools from local auto parts suppliers using the axles as a centering guide or? It seems like the centering movement via shims will be pretty minimal so I may just set preload and move on but if there are other ways to check to make sure the inner axle seal isn't getting too stressed, etc. I'm all ears.
- Anyone have a link to a good shim kit source for the 80 series? A quick search showed somewhat mixed consistency here, at least per the pictures.
Thanks for any information or links to threads on these topics.