Wheel alignment Golf 3

Hello,

I have a rather theoretical question. My Golf III, TDI, is due for its TÜV inspection. During a preliminary inspection by an independent workshop, the following issues were identified (subject to review by TÜV):
- Right tie rod end.
- front rubber bushings of the axle suspension.

When I was having my car's alignment adjusted, the mechanic told me that he would definitely need to perform an axle alignment and adjustment.

Regarding my question: I know that he only has a measuring gauge and no testing equipment. Is a simple alignment with a track gauge sufficient, or should I have the alignment done by a professional using proper measuring equipment?

Thank you for your responses...

Sure, here's the translation of the text from German to English:

'Cu müllo' is a phrase in the Swiss German dialect, which translates to 'How are you?' in English.

Hi,
Forget about the ruler thing.
The probability that the car will not go straight ahead is very close to 100%.
However, there are also some specialists who struggle with optical axle alignment, so, like so many things in life, it ultimately comes down to trust.
Ask around in your circle of acquaintances to see if anyone has had good experiences with wheel alignment services at a particular place.

Regards,
Olli.

Hi,

Wheel alignment... if necessary, you can get it done at ATU for 49 euros.
You're on relatively safe ground there.

Regards,
arne

As reported in detail, the front lower control arm bushings and the right steering knuckle need to be replaced. The invoice includes 22 euros for the aforementioned wheel alignment, including adjustment (using the 'Trabi-Lineal').

I plan to have the front axle inspected using a current testing stand. If the values are not correct, I will deduct the 22 euros from the invoice. 'With the audit log, I can prove that the track/trajectory was incorrect, and then we'll see what happens...'

Sure, here's the translation of the text from German to English:

'Cu müllo' is a phrase in the Swiss German dialect, which translates to 'How are you?' in English.

Hello,

If the alignment is generally okay and the steering wheel is straight, using an old alignment tool can still be a practical way to quickly check if the alignment is roughly correct.
However, the previous speakers are also right: you can buy them for 49 euros from a tire dealer, and you're done.
Based on my experience, I generally wouldn't recommend ATU.

Best regards,
Albrecht.

Hi,

I completely agree; the wheel alignment service at ATU is terrible.
Last weekend, I installed a coilover suspension system from H&R in my Golf, which, of course, also required adjustments to the alignment (toe and camber).

Well, first, you had to fight to ensure that the alignment was actually set to zero and not just within the tolerance range. The same goes for the camber: large tolerances seem to be sufficient to satisfy customers as long as the computer shows a green light...

Then the mechanic took the vehicle for a test drive and said everything was okay. After the first few meters on the way home, I was quite disappointed.

The steering wheel is completely crooked, and he's pulling sharply to the left.
In my opinion, the master's approval was more of a hopeful gesture, like: "Maybe he won't understand, and then it's time to go home."
Whoever doesn't notice something like that shouldn't work as a master.

But, as the advertisements say: 4 new ones – it doesn't cost the earth.

Greetings.