Alignment and Suspension Specs: 2005-2011 Chevrolet Equinox

Alignment and Suspension Specs: 2005-2011 Chevrolet Equinox

The alignment process of the Equinox is mechanically straightforward. The front suspension is a MacPherson strut design with hydraulic bushings in the lower control arms. The rear suspension is a four-link layout.

3. Install the scan tool into the OBD II connector.
 
4. Turn the ignition switch ON, with the engine OFF.
 
5. Select Chassis/EBCM control system Vehicle Stability Enhancement System (VSES), special function test, and Steering Position Sensor Calibration.
 
6. Follow the scan tool directions to complete the automated centering procedure. This should include turning the steering wheel left 5º and right 5º and then straight forward.
 
7. Clear any DTCs that may be set. Perform the Diagnostic System Check to verify no current DTCs.
 
8. Test drive the vehicle. 
 
 
AFTERMARKET 
ADJUSTMENTS
The strut front suspension is bolted to the knuckle by two bolts that make it possible to use the EZCam XR for alignment. This part is designed to adjust camber by up to plus or minus 1.5° without any modification to the strut or knuckle. It is used on many strut suspensions systems of similar design and is a commonly used part.  Ease of installation and adjustment make the EZCam a good alignment option. The Specialty Products part number 81260  is used on this front suspension.
The rear suspension consists of an independent multi-link that has a special cam nut used for rear toe and/or camber adjustment. Sometimes there is no cam nut installed on one of the two parallel arms. The frame brackets on both of these control arms are slotted and have shoulders stamped in the frame to accept  this special cam nut. Adjusting either of these arms without using the special cam nut is very difficult. 
 
As soon as you loosen the bolt, the arm will slam one direction or the other because of the vehicle weight. The vehicle can be lifted by the frame to make adjustment easier, but now the bushing is not in the loaded position when the bolt is tightened. This, as everyone knows, is a big no-no. Installing another cam nut, such as the Specialty Products part number 87420, will make adjusting the rear camber and/or toe on these vehicles much easier. Just remove the existing nut and install the cam nut so it is located between the frame bracket shoulders. Adjustment range for these vehicles is approximately 2 degrees. Dial in the necessary adjustments and tighten the head of the bolt making sure the bolt is not cocked or binding in the frame bracket. 
Douglas Hardy
Technical Trainer/Designer II
Specialty Products Company

You May Also Like

Maximize Your Scan Tool

Are you maximizing your scan tools to their full potential? Don’t let them be just an expensive code reader.

Scan Tool

If there’s a truth that extends across all computerized devices, it’s that we likely utilize only a fraction of the things they have the ability to do. Mobile phones are a great example. How many people do you know who only use them for calls, voicemail and text messages? We all know they do so much more.The scan tools we use every day fall into the same category. Are you maximizing yours to their full potential? Don’t let them be just an expensive code reader. That may be easier said than done, because it takes a lot of time to understand both the scan tool and how well it interacts with the vehicles you’re working on, but there are a few factors that can help you dive a little deeper into the functions at your fingertips.

Brake Lathe Basics

Resurfacing drums and rotors is a machining process with its own specific guidelines.

Refrigerant Oil Has to Be Right

Oil type is just as important as oil capacity.

Three bottles of refrigerant oil
Top 5 Tools: Steve Coffell, Auto World, Hazelwood, MO

Steve Coffell, a technician at Auto World in Hazelwood, MO, says his Top 5 Favorite Tools are: Related Articles – Lisle Low Profile Fuel Line Disconnect – Dent Fix Soft-Shock Mallet DF-SM76 Reduces Damage – New ProMAXX Diesel Fuel Injector Seal Puller/Saver ProKits   OTC Genisys Touch – Quick scan, bidirectional control Snap-on VANTAGE Pro

Wheel Bearing Adjustment Tools & Equipment

A wheel bearing that’s out of adjustment can reduce bearing life and can affect more than just the bearing. It’s important to adjust the wheel bearing endplay to the proper specifications. If the bearing set is adjusted too loose or too tight, it can cause the bearing to fail prematurely. There are a few types of assemblies, so using correct procedures and tools will ensure a comeback-free wheel bearing installation.

Other Posts

2024 Is Your Year to Be the Technician You Always Wanted to Be

As we enter 2024, strategic career planning is essential for success in the automotive repair industry.

happy new year 2024
Impact Wrench Technology

Interchangeable anvils are a feature on some new impacts.

Tools in the Eye of the Beholder

We’re here to help you see all the tools, so you can invest wisely.

Multimeter Accuracy: How Important Is It?

Multimeter accuracy is critical for EV diagnostics.

multimeter