can a 911 be "do it your self aligned"?
 

I've seen people on this board swear by alignments that that did at home. How do I go about checking my 84 911 alignment to see if it is "spot on". ?

John- there is an excellent thread on this BBS explaining it nicely, especially how to do it using home tools. I think it's in the tech articles, or do a search. Unfortunately I printed it off and don't have it with me. Speak out anyone who knows.

thanks, I'll look for it. just got a 84 911 and I want to check the front end. I guess all 911's "jerk" on uneven roads, but mine also veers right under breaking-maybe a sticking caliper? the left front wheels spins alot freer than the right, it's not a bearing problem since it disappears after I compress the calipers. If anyone can add their input in addition to this article I would appreciate it.

If the 'pulling' is strictly during brake application, as opposed to pulling to one side, every time you release your hands from the steering wheel on straight and level road with NO TRAFFIC in sight, then it is not a sticking pad or caliper. Most likely problem is something about the surface condition of either one of more rotors, or one or more pads, such as:

1. Scored, pitted, corroded and 'glazed' rotor surface, causing diminished friction and hence, braking force for that wheel.

2. Severely worn pad, severe dust build-up, or brake fluid contamination on pad or pads for one or more particular caliper(s), causing diminished friction and braking force on a wheel.

Pulling to one side when NOT applying brakes, assuming it is always the same direction, can be the result of inproper tire pressures, abnormally worn tires, severely maladjusted wheel alignment, abnormal suspension wear on components such as tie-rod ends or ball joints.

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Warren Hall
1973 911S Targa

I compressed and released thr caliper pistons a few times and the veering during braking disappeared. It only veers alittle now if I'm on an uneven cambered road otherwise it goes as straight as any other car does on crowned roads. I just need to either check my alignment or set it to track straight with minimum tire wear. There appears to be no abnormal tire wear on all fours and they are about 1/3 worn, so that is good.