Hi I just put Powerflex front control arm bushings on my 02 S. I plan on taking it to get a 4-wheel alignment tomorrow. It is tracking straight, so I was wondering if it really needed it. If so should I let them put the stock settings on it or is there better settings? I have Eibach Pro-Kit Spring Set and Koni Sport Strut (3 way adjustable) on the car. It is my daily driver and I autocross it. I will be leaving for the dragon on Thursday. Thanks
Anytime to replace something, get it aligned even if it feels straight. Not much for setting on front unless you have adjustable camber plates. And also none in rear on 02 without adjustable control arms.
Just what parts of the stock suspention have adjustments? As far as I can tell it is just the tie rods ends on the steering rack, so toe is about it. So, unless you have the tie rod ends off the rack, there should be no reason for an alignment or am I missing something? Dave
That’s why I asked the question. I measured across the front and back of my front wheels to see if they had toe in or out. They had slight toe out. Because I do not know how much it should have I thought I would have it aligned. Also I want to make the rear track behind the fronts. I really appreciate the help
I will be facing the same problem as you, very soon. Searches show just as many posts saying an alinement is NOT necessary, as there are posts that say it IS. I really do not know what the correct answer is. :frown2: Jim
I err on the conservative side, and also the side that the standard alignment is generally not very good anyway. Though to get the "good" alignment that I like I needed to buy a few parts (camber plates and rear control arms). - Andrew
From your handle, I'm assuming that you have a '02 MINI Cooper S. Here are the alignment specs. that were posted here in 2005, so they should be valid for your car. MINI COOPER :: North American Motoring - Stock Cooper S Alignment specs Dave
If the suspenders are stock all that can be set is the toe. Adjustable camber plates & rear arms add camber adjustment. 05 & 06 have a bit of camber adjustment in the rear from the factory. I was able to dial out 1/2 degree of camber out of the the rear of my 06.
I suspect I'm not to far out of alignment. I will have it checked and post the results. Thanks again for everyone’s help
The shop I took my car to is a very good shop. After checking the alignment the owner came in to ask what set up I wonted. I told him stock would be fine. He told me that the only thing off was a very slight toe in. it was set to .33 and should be .30 he told me they could try to get it closer but he didn’t thank it was worth it. Total charge $0, Pease of mind priceless. I hope this helps the next person. Thanks guys for the help!