Front end alignment

[Big Kahuna]

I have just installed Eibach Pro Kit lowering springs this weekend..

Was told by a number of local mechanics to wait until I get about 150 more miles on my Cruiser which will allow the springs to settle before getting a front end alignment.

Was told by one mechanic that there are a couple bolts that may need to be reduced to prevent any toeing of the front end. Anyone know about this?

Has anyone had any good or bad experiences with Eibach Pro Lowering Springs for the Cruiser? Tire wear? Suggestions? (other than watching the curbs, speed bumps, and some car washes)

[PT Padre]

I put Eibach's on about 20K miles ago and like them a lot. There is a grinding of something on the bolts that do the alignment to give just enough adjustment. There is also a "kit" which consists of identical bolts that have been shaved. My tire wear (Dunlop 225/40ZP18) has been very balanced and good with rotations (front and back) every 3-4K miles. The ride is a bit harsher on bumpy roads but the handling sure is flatter.

I wouldn't wait to align the car. I could see the camber change in mine as soon as they lowered it off the rack. It also pulled to the right until they realigned it right there.

Enjoy!

PT Padre

[Larry Pearson]

I also put Eibach lowering springs on my PT Touring Cruiser. I agree that the ride is slightly harsher over potholes and washboards, but the tradeoff is in the handling. With the short wheelbase and overall height of a Cruiser, I was surprised at how well they handled with the stock touring pakage to begin with, but with the new lowering springs, it handles even better, very little body roll..and of course the way it looks just knocks me out. Watch out for pulling up to curbs in parking lots, though. Also I agree with getting it aligned immediatley..dropping it two inches is pretty drastic.

[Big Kahuna]

Everyone... you guys are the greatest...

Thanks for all the replies and suggestions... I agree with all of you regarding the improved handling and how it hugs the road - even going around a highway cloverleaf.

I am heading over to get an alignment this week. I was referred to a guy who has done a number of alignments on lowered PT Cruisers and knows exactly what I meant about the bolts that need mild alterations.

The Eibach Pro Kit give my "Surf Cruiser" a real sweet look! She really hugs the turf. I will definitely keep an eye out for curbs, speed bumps, potholes and parking stops...

Thanks again!