Estimating Caster Using a Digital Camera
This is a method estimating the front end caster using a digital camera and using Windows Paint to estimate camber angles from the picture. Normally one would take 2 pictures from each wheel, one f...
Forum Discussion
Here is a little more detail on the technique of how to use the camera. If you need assistance in interpreting the pictures using paint, post the pictures and I will do what I can on your behalf.
1. The steering wheel should be cranked to the right and the front wheels are to be stationary, in the same position, for all four pictures.
2. The crank angle picture is with the bottom of the camera resting on the fender well located (fore and aft) above the axel.
3. The camber angle is captured with:
a. The camera lens horizontally positioned approximately in line with the outside side of the wheel as if there were no hub cap involved if there is a hub cap.
b. The camera lens is vertically positioned at approximately axel height on a stand that ensures the camera bottom is parallel to the "even" ground on which the vehicle is parked.
c. A distance of 5-6 feet from the wheel is good. Close ups for camber shots would not work out.
Older cameras are BEST (typically less then 3600 x 2700 pixels (2.0-2.5 MB)). Newer cameras are an overkill and would make for much larger then required resolution (and files too big for uploading here).
The object here is to attempt to give you some idea of the current caster settings of your vehicle. Having that information will help you decide if you want to enlist the services of a professional alignment shop.
1. The steering wheel should be cranked to the right and the front wheels are to be stationary, in the same position, for all four pictures.
2. The crank angle picture is with the bottom of the camera resting on the fender well located (fore and aft) above the axel.
3. The camber angle is captured with:
a. The camera lens horizontally positioned approximately in line with the outside side of the wheel as if there were no hub cap involved if there is a hub cap.
b. The camera lens is vertically positioned at approximately axel height on a stand that ensures the camera bottom is parallel to the "even" ground on which the vehicle is parked.
c. A distance of 5-6 feet from the wheel is good. Close ups for camber shots would not work out.
Older cameras are BEST (typically less then 3600 x 2700 pixels (2.0-2.5 MB)). Newer cameras are an overkill and would make for much larger then required resolution (and files too big for uploading here).
The object here is to attempt to give you some idea of the current caster settings of your vehicle. Having that information will help you decide if you want to enlist the services of a professional alignment shop.
