Car Service/Maintenance

Overview This article explains scrub radius—the horizontal distance between the steering axis and tire contact patch—as a critical suspension measurement that affects vehicle handling, stability, and tire wear. The guide provides five detailed tips for calculating and optimizing scrub radius, covering proper measurement techniques, formula application, accounting for wheel/tire modifications, considering suspension height changes, and […]

Overview This article explains caster trail measurement as the distance between the steering axis and tire contact point, detailing five essential tips for accurate measurement: using proper tools, ensuring correct vehicle setup, understanding calculation methods, accounting for temperature variations, and knowing when to seek professional help. The proper measurement and adjustment of caster trail is

Overview This guide provides five expert tips for working with camber adjustment cam bolts, covering proper installation techniques, precision measurement methods, correct torque application, troubleshooting common challenges, and performance upgrade options. Proper camber alignment is essential for optimal handling, preventing uneven tire wear, and enhancing overall vehicle performance, with specialized adjustment bolts allowing for precise

Overview This article provides a detailed guide to DIY wheel alignment toe adjustment, explaining how proper alignment prevents premature tire wear, improves handling, and enhances fuel efficiency. It covers everything from identifying misalignment symptoms and gathering necessary tools to performing the adjustment, avoiding common mistakes, finding manufacturer specifications, and testing the results through a road

Overview This article examines how proper suspension travel affects vehicle performance, covering symptoms of limited travel, common causes, and specific solutions for both street and off-road applications. It provides detailed guidance on front and rear suspension improvements, including shock absorber upgrades, spring considerations, and geometry optimization, while distinguishing between DIY-appropriate modifications and those requiring professional

Overview This article explains that coil spring free height—the natural, uncompressed length of a spring—is a critical but often overlooked specification that affects vehicle handling, safety, and component longevity. Proper measurement and specification of spring free height prevents issues like uneven stance, excessive body roll, and premature wear on suspension components, with the author providing

Overview This article provides five expert tips for selecting, installing, and maintaining shock absorber mounting hardware, emphasizing how these often-overlooked components significantly impact vehicle handling, safety, and comfort. The guide details the importance of choosing appropriate materials (rubber, polyurethane, or metal), performing regular inspections, following proper installation techniques, considering performance upgrades, and implementing preventive maintenance

Overview This guide provides five essential tips for properly measuring bump stop compression in vehicle suspensions, including selecting appropriate tools, establishing baselines, correct vehicle setup, suspension-specific measurement techniques, and making proper adjustments. Proper bump stop setup prevents suspension damage, improves ride quality and handling, and ensures safety during extreme maneuvers, with specific approaches needed for

Overview This article explains how to calculate the ideal anti-roll bar diameter for vehicles, emphasizing that proper sizing depends on vehicle weight, center of gravity, intended use, and suspension geometry, with diameter affecting stiffness exponentially (to the fourth power). It provides mathematical formulas, real-world examples, and tuning guidance while debunking the “stiffer is better” myth,

Overview This guide explains how to calibrate active suspension sensors at home, covering the complete process from understanding suspension systems to testing and maintenance. DIY calibration can save hundreds in repair costs while restoring proper vehicle handling, ride comfort, and preventing premature wear of related components. Table of Contents Introduction Understanding Active Suspension Systems Tools