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Home >> GMC >> 2003 >> Safari Van Cargo, AWD >> Repair and Diagnosis >> External Pages >> Different car >> Section 733 (Wheel Alignment Specifications & Adjustment Procedures) >> Repair Instructions >> Front Caster & Camber Adjustment (RWD)

Front Caster & Camber Adjustment (RWD)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 GMC Safari and 2002 Chevrolet Astro. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The caster and the camber adjustments are made by inserting shims between the upper control arm shaft and the frame bracket. The shims may be added, subtracted, or transferred in order to change the readings.

Important: 

  1. Loosen the upper control arm shaft to frame nuts (1).
    Fig 1: Upper Control Arm
    G02501604Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

    Important: 

    • A normal shim pack will leave at least 21/2 threads of the bolt exposed beyond the nut. The maximum shim pack cannot be thicker than 21.3 mm d (0.84 in).
    • The difference between the front shim packs and the rear shim packs must not exceed 10 mm (0.40 in). If these requirements cannot be met, check for damaged control arms and damaged related parts.
  2. If the caster is not within specifications, adjust the caster by transferring the front shims to the rear, or the rear shims to the front. The transfer of the one shim from the rear bolt to the front bolt will decrease the positive caster.
  3. If the camber is not within specification, adjust the camber by changing the shims at both the front and the rear of the shaft. Add or subtract the shims (2) as required. Adding an equal number of shims at both the front and rear of the cross shaft will decrease positive camber.
  4. Tighten the nut on the thinner shim pack first. Tighten the nuts to 110 N m (81 lb ft). Tightening the nut on the thinner shim pack first improves the shaft to frame clamping force and torque retention.
  5. Check the toe-in after changing the caster or the camber. Refer to Front Toe Adjustment .