[2k9ram]

So I recently brought my 09 in for an alignment after noticing that my new tires were not wearing to my expectations. I have an 09 1500 Crew Cab with 60k miles. About the only thing that I have done is installed the Bilstein 5100 on the factory setting in the front and at the same time threw on a set of Bilstein's in the back.

The mechanic that performed my alignment was able to get the front aligned but made mentioned that the Thrust Angle was off and he isn't real sure why.

So... I ask of all of you who are much more mechanically inclined then myself, if you have any ideas or suggestions on why the Thrust Angle would be off and any tips or suggestions on what a guy has to do on an 09 to get it back into tolerance.

Any help or feedback would greatly be appreciated!

 

[RogerRamJet]

Do you know the history of the truck, where it's been and how it's been driven? The truck has had to hit something pretty big and solid to get the rear wheels unsquare from the frame.

 

[2k9ram]

I do know the History. I drove the truck off the lot brand new without any miles on it. That is part of what is so puzzling on what is going on. If it had been in an accident, used off-road, or been abused in some fashion I would at least have an idea on why it would be off. But this truck to this point in its life has lived a pretty easy highway miled life.

 

[PETE YK]

If you're positive your truck hasnt hit anything during its entire service life then trust your gut feeling lol Thrust angle can change just from worn out bushings in the control arms that connect the rear axle to the frame. Good time to upgrade to poly bushings!

 

[2k9ram]

With not being overly mechanically inclined I wasn't sure what could possibly throw the thrust angle off. By the sounds of it I better start looking into the bushings in the rear control arms. The mechanic that did the alignment checked out the suspension and did not notice anything worn out or in need of replacement. Maybe warrants a closer inspection? Any other ideas or suggestions on what else to take a close look at?

 

[Hornet]

Follow the truck up the street and see if the axle is actually centered under the truck.
Could be your track bar pushing the diff to one side if the height of the truck has changed from stock,either lower by sagged springs,or higher from the shock setting

 

[2k9ram]

Thanks Hornet,

I currently have it into the dealership for broken exhaust manifold bolts. When I get it back I will have to follow it and see if I notice anything. I haven't in the past but maybe wasn't really looking for it either.

 

[Soaringcook]

Follow the truck up the street and see if the axle is actually centered under the truck.
Could be your track bar pushing the diff to one side if the height of the truck has changed from stock,either lower by sagged springs,or higher from the shock setting

Do leveling the front of the truck will make the track bar affect the thurst angle?

I just leveled my truck 2 inches and after aligment my thrust angle is off by 45