Interpreting Caster Alignment Specs
Thinking outside the box? Given: 2011 F53 Caster Spec 3.75 +/-1,75 Degrees This specifies a range of +2.0 to +5.5 Degrees Logical Interpretation: +2.00 Degrees for 100% city driving +3.75...
Forum Discussion
theoldwizard1 wrote:dodge guy wrote:
If at all possible always go with the higher caster spec. The highway stability will be greatly increased. It may be a bit harder to steer in a gas station, but the highway handling will far out weigh parking lot maneuvering.phil-t wrote:
I had a shop do my 2010 F53. They do a lot of F53 chassis. Talked them beforehand about the handling. They set the caster - 7-3/4 left and 8-1/4 right. Handles like a dream. Mine is the 22,000 GVWR. All the left/right wandering is gone.
Both are 100% correct. Only "old timers" are willing to go that far beyond the spec, but they know that caster DOES NOT AFFECT TIRE WEAR and it does greatly increase the chassis ability to hold a straight line.
Side to side caster difference is to deal with the "crown" in the road (higher in the center to promote better drainage).
Caster DOES affect tire wear. When you turn the wheels the tire and wheel assemble will roll over on it side. You will get excessive wear on the both sides of the front tires. If you ever have a chance, watch the front tires of a class A fuel dragster. You can see the effects of extreme, excessive caster. I run about 7° caster on the front of my 95 F53 and you can see the wear.
Richard
