ZenZiglar

Does adding wheel spacers change alignment?

I'm going to lower with Swift springs and then consider spacers later.
Will I need to do the alignment again after the spacers?

Also, any advice on choosing spacers? I noticed there are DRS and DRM.

Also, what's a good size spacer when lowering the sedan on Swifts. 20mm?

blnewt

iTrader: (13)

I've had good luck w/ Ichiba V2 spacers (the bolt on type).

No alignment change when adding spacers.

I'd wait until you drop it then measure so you'll be exactly where you want, much better than having it come up short or too much.

ZenZiglar

Appreciate the advice. You're becoming my top advisor on the Swift drop.

ttv36

iTrader: (1)

I'm sure it is possible that the spacers may affect your alignment, but if they do it should be very minimal. Unless the spacers happen to be not cut straight or something.

I would get an alignment after adding the spacers just to be sure. Also verify that your alignment shop has no issues with aligning your car with spacers, some may refuse you if you have spacers.

dragion

iTrader: (2)

I would wait and get the alignment after installing the spacers, unless you plan to get them "way" further up the road.
I felt that the spacers can make a difference within an alignment, due to the way the wheels sit.
Any change to the suspension can produce a change...even the slightest.

In my case, I went with 20mm Hub Centric DRM wheel spacers...I just had them re-tourqued today and they haven't changed since install.

Here are a couple of my threads that might help:

Swifts
https://www.myg37.com/forums/g37-sed...t-springs.html

Spacers
https://www.myg37.com/forums/g37-sed...er-or-not.html

blnewt

iTrader: (13)

Spacers won't change any angles w/ your wheels so your alignment shouldn't be effected, it'll push a bit of weight further from the hub but your springs shouldn't budge. That said, be sure to lower your car first, get aligned (since the camber will effect how far out you can safely go w/ your spacers) then measure accurately for the spacer size you need. It's a bummer thinking you've got everything set up just right and when you get your alignment done the wheels pull in more than expected and you've got gap that you didn't want. Now if you want to get an alignment after spacers as well, that's up to you, but shouldn't make a difference.

ZenZiglar

So things are coming together. I've ordered the spacers and plan to put them on before alignment.

With hopes to avoid a camber kit, or any additional parts for that matter, I'm seeking out a skilled alignment tech. I found one that's quoted me $100-150 stating that custom alignments take more time, and he'd like to take some time with it. Is this price too high? Alternatively, alignments are typically $70-90 where I live. Lowering expenses are getting a little high, so I need some advice to save money where possible. Thanks.

Underlying question is, how hard is it to get alignment close to spec? Do I really need the BEST tech? Keep in mind, I'm a '09 with 60,000 miles. I suspect age might be making the suspension sag a little more.

blnewt

iTrader: (13)

It's MUCH better finding a shop that's experienced w/ lowered vehicles and going above & beyond stock alignment work. A lot of alignment shops don't even have equipment suitable for lowered vehicles, so you sound like you'll be in good hands w/ the tech you mentioned. A lot better to find a guy that takes his time, gets things right compared to a Sears, etc. that rushes
through, says it's out of spec and sends you down the road. The difference between getting in spec can often come down to the tech doing the work. Price sounds reasonable if they truly know what they're doing.

TheLocNar

iTrader: (5)

I didn't get a print-out from getting my alignment done today, exactly 1 week after getting my Swifts installed on my xS sedan. (I also have 20mm spacers front and rear)

No kit needed. Camber is just a tad off in front, but he got toe in spec all around. He only spent 15 minutes on my car. I'm very relieved. lol

blnewt

iTrader: (13)

Nice
Seems like the Swifts are doing just fine without kits, great choice for those wanting a decent drop, but a bit more friendly day to day

TheLocNar

iTrader: (5)

Most definitely! It's been a week and I'm happy. Of course, you'll feel more of a jolt with the larger bumps, but normal roads/lesser imperfections? No problem at all!

ZenZiglar

Wholeheartedly agree! Here are some pics to show what my car looks like now. Excuse the cloudy weather.

I ended up going with 20mm spacers in the front, and 15mm spacers in the back. Big thanks to Dragion for his threads posted above.

Alignment will be done in 3 days. I'll add those results after.

Before:


After:


Before:


After:


Bonus:

ZenZiglar

Not sure why the pics don't appear, but the links work.

blnewt

iTrader: (13)

Glad you're happy w/ the drop. Might want to load your photos on ImageShack - Host your every picture online for free then link them here. Look forward to pics as I don't have my Google log-in info in my memory
BTW, are you going w/ that alignment tech you mentioned above? Hopefully your specs will be golden

dragion

iTrader: (2)

Glad that everything turned out well...

Unable to view the links...permission please.
As Blnewt mentioned, you can post your photos on ImageShack or Photobucket.