1999 AUDI A4 Suspension Wheel Alignment Workshop Manual

44-6


Wheel alignment

WARNING!

Do not re-use any fasteners that are worn or
deformed in normal use.
Some fasteners are designed to be used only
once, and are unreliable and may fail if used
a second time. This includes, but is not
limited to, nuts, bolts, washers, circlips and
cotter pins. Always follow the
recommendations in this manual-replace
these fasteners with new parts where
indicated, and any other time it is deemed
necessary by inspection.
The wheel alignment should be measured using
VW/Audi approved wheel alignment equipment.
Wheel alignment checks must always include
both the front and the rear axles. Otherwise the
proper running characteristics of the vehicle
cannot be ensured.

Notes:
The wheel alignment should not be checked
before the vehicle has completed 1000-2000
km (600-1200 miles) so that the coil springs
have time to settle.
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When making adjustments, the relevant
specifications should be adhered to as closely
as possible.
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44-7

Suspension codes, checking
requirements


Information on weight codes (code number)

From m.y. 1998 , spring/shock assemblies will
be classified according to weight codes (code
number) so that suspension components can be
matched easily.
The spring/shock assembly installed in the
vehicle is indicated by the weight code on the
vehicle data label.

Specified values for wheel alignment
1BA = Standard suspension
1BC = Special purpose suspension
Special purpose vehicles suspension -1BC- have
the same specified values for wheel alignment as
the standard suspension -1BA-.
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44-8


Example of vehicle data label
In this example the vehicle is installed with the standard suspension,
version 1BA (arrow).
The vehicle data label is located in the spare wheel recess and in the
vehicle Maintenance booklet.
Factory codes for the suspension:
1BA: Standard suspension1BE: Sport suspension 1BB: Heavy duty suspension (approx. 20 mm (3/4 in.) higher)1BC: Special purpose suspension1BD: Sport suspension, Audi S41BH: USA1BT: Heavy duty suspension (approx. 7 mm or 1/4 in. higher)1BP: Heavy duty suspension (same ride height as 1BA but with limited
bump)
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44-9

Requirements

Test equipment must be properly adjusted
and attached to vehicle (refer to equipment
manufacturer's instructions)
Equal tread depth for both tires on each axle,
with difference between two not more than 2
mm (0.079 in.)
Tires inflated to correct pressure
Sliding plates and turntables not positioned
against any stop when checking wheel
alignment
Vehicle at correct curb weight 1)
Vehicle accurately positioned, suspension
bounced and rocked several times and
allowed to settle
Suspension, steering and steering linkage in
proper condition with no damage or
excessive play
Carry out axial wheel run-out compensation.
Since some wheel run-out is allowable,
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checking alignment without first
compensating for axial wheel run out may
indicate that the toe-in tolerance is already
exceeded. If this is the case it is not possible
to set toe-in without first compensating for
wheel run-out

1) Curb weight is defined as: the weight of the
vehicle ready for the road (fuel tank completely
full, spare wheel, vehicle tool kit and vehicle jack
all in specified positions).
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44-10
Wheel alignment must be checked if

There are problems with vehicle performance.
There is accident damage.
Tires are worn on one side.
Axle components have been removed table below.Front axle component
removed or replaced Alignment check
required S-point adjustment
required Rear axle component
removed or replaced Alignment check
required

Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
No
Rear upper link X X Shock absorber X
Front upper link X X
Guide link with hydraulic-
bushing X X Coil spring X
Suspension strut X X
Track control link X X Upper control arm 1) X
Mounting bracket X X Lower control arm 1) X
Wheel bearing housing X X Wheel bearing housing1) X
Tie rod X X Track rod 1) X
Steering gear X X Subframe 1) X
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Subframe X X Torsion beam axle assembly
(FWD) X
Stabilizer bar X Stabilizer bar X 1) Only affects vehicles with all wheel drive
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