'69 B Body Alignment Specs.

[mr. hemi]

Apologies if the query has been answered previously, however a search did not come up with the exact question.

I have just replaced the rear springs and torsion bars on my '69 Charger R/T. Will be setting the ride height to stock specs and getting an alignment done. All suspension components are stock with only about 18000 miles on them. I realize the current thinking is to get as much caster into it as you can, especially if using radial tires. Now I just noticed that the FSM manual lists a different caster spec for manual steering (-1/2 deg.) as opposed to power steering at (+3/4 deg.). I do not know what it was aligned to previously.

Is there any reason not to adjust to maximum positive caster with the manual steering? I assume the original thinking was to make it easier to armstrong the steering wheel. The car will normally be on P255/60R-15 radials on 8" rims. Occasionally will be fitted with stock F70-15 redlines.

Thanks in advance.

[XH29N0G]

You probably know more about this than I do, but I will contribute what I was advised in case it answers your question.  There are definitely others who know more. 

What I understand is that the original alignment specs were for bias ply tires and radials require, can use, something different and that the alignment process has changed for some places.  For instance, my place couldn't take specific numbers and input them into their system, but wanted to know specific model car.  What I was told was that getting to the 2005 mustang alignment specs was just outside the range of the original equipment suspension travel but that this would get close to the optimal setting for the original equipment suspension.  My understanding is if suspension parts are changed then further options are available.

I'll wait for others to chime in.   

[birdsandbees]

We tried throwing in some extra positive caster when we did my Bee last Spring and it's a tiring drive on Goodyear Redstreaks and doing some pulling right. Both something I never found in the 40+ years I've drove this car and the car has always been on bias plies. When this C19 shit has tamed down I'm going back for the stock alignment set up, that is actually in their alignment rack computer.

If you are on radials, it's a whole nuther game.

[c00nhunterjoe]

If you go to a shop and they ask you what car you want it programmed to, or look at you funny, walk away.
 
1/8" toe in, negative .5 to .75 camber, max positve caster capable. With stock parts you can usually get 2 degrees.