Z4C DIY string alignment

[ionofchios]

Hi guys,

Sorry if this is a dumb question. I want to check front and rear toe on my 2006 Z4 3.0SI Coupe (e86). I am planning on using the string and jack stands method.

I understand I am supposed to set the string up so it runs exactly parallel with the car lengthways. So, I was thinking I need to line it up so it is the same distance from the hub centres of the front and back wheels, probably by removing the wheel centre cover things so I can measure from the actual hub centre. But is the axle track (distance between hubs) on my car the same front and rear? If so, I guess I need to know that difference and take into account. What is the difference?

Any help with this would be appreciated!

 

[Rucky]

No offence but a 4 wheel laser alignment is only about £50 and :
A ) you can see exactly how far out it is on each wheel
B) the set up is programmed to your Vin so there is no error or interpretation.

I cant help you with the string method but I used to use two Bamboos taped together to set the Toe back in the day.
With the price of tyres and the abundance of potholes its worth paying IMO.

 

[Liam22]

Accuracy is about the operator, not the tools. String method is not a quick job though.

I measure to the centre caps.

Rear track is wider than the front, but depends on your wheel/spacer combo. Doesn't matter so long as you have the string the same distance apart at each end. Just get the gap to the rear centres equal, and the gap to the front centres equal.

 =====  <-pole
|  C  |
|  A  | <-string
|  R  |
 =====  <-pole

It's essential to have the same width at front and rear. I use copper pipe. Taped together and then hacksaw 'nicks' at both ends. I run very fine fishing line over the nicks.

Couple of photos on page 5, here https://z4-forum.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=112593&start=60

 

[ionofchios]

Accuracy is about the operator, not the tools. String method is not a quick job though.

I measure to the centre caps.

Rear track is wider than the front, but depends on your wheel/spacer combo. Doesn't matter so long as you have the string the same distance apart at each end. Just get the gap to the rear centres equal, and the gap to the front centres equal.

 =====  <-pole
|  C  |
|  A  | <-string
|  R  |
 =====  <-pole

It's essential to have the same width at front and rear. I use copper pipe. Taped together and then hacksaw 'nicks' at both ends. I run very fine fishing line over the nicks.

Couple of photos on page 5, here https://z4-forum.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=112593&start=60

Cheers! That makes perfect sense! It was a dumb question, after all