Caster alignment

[Dimitri16V]

How much can it be corrected by shifting the subframe ?
Are the bolt holes on the subframe slightly slotted or all the shift is taken by the rear bushings ?

My left is at 7.3 and right at 6.7

I installed the TT bushings in the LCAs few yrs ago and wonder if the smaller diameter bolts used on them caused the difference in the caster

 

[Windex]

If the bolts are centered, there shouldn't be any change in the caster.

Does your car pull? Is the handling "off" in any way?

at .6deg cross caster, I would expect a pull, probably to the right given your readings.

If it were my MK4, I would start by trying to adjust the caster at the two lower ball joints - loosening off the three bolts on each side, and shifting the left wheel rearward, and the right wheel forward. If that does not bring it into spec, then I would try shifting the subframe (rotating it counter-clockwise as viewed from the top of the car)

I would think you would be able to get at least .5deg by moving the frame around easy.

 

[Dimitri16V]

Steering is lighter than normal , no pull

Camber is slightly negative but still within normal values as is toe too

To me it appears that the right side ( 6.7) needs to be tilted forward , if I am correct

 

[Windex]

The right would need to be tilted rearward, if your goal is to make caster even on both sides.

 

[Dimitri16V]

Will pull the subframe tonight and replace the mounts , maybe I will find something amiss

Local alignment shop refuses the touch the subframe

 

[Windex]

Will pull the subframe tonight and replace the mounts , maybe I will find something amiss

Local alignment shop refuses the touch the subframe

Silly. When I was doing alignments, I adjusted subframes (shifted them) all the time. Sometimes it's the only way to get the angles in line. The only issue is working on older cars, what if a bolt snaps or strips - the customer will blame you unless you talk to them about the risks (of moveing the subframe) up front.

 

[Dimitri16V]

Yep , everything today is a quick buck scheme

These kinds of cheap alignment is misleading and false advertising
I had a talk with the manager but of course I just wasted my breath and my time