I had some colleagues align my truck at work, but they didn’t center up the wheel. I researched how to center it up myself, but I’m uncertain if the tie rods going to the power steering rack are free spinning. Has anyone done this before? I’m assuming I open up some threads (in 1/4 turn increments) on one end and close some on the opposite wheel to center up my wheel.

 

If they didnt have enough sense to center the steering wheel prior to alignment, the whole job would be suspect to me. Take it to another shop and have it done right.

 

it was aligned correctly, they showed me the data sheet. It was done by some navy colleagues in the alignment shop they use to service all the navy vehicles. For free on top of that...

 

Take it back, let them do it right. Centering the wheel is a basic step.

Happened to me once - took it in for a "free alignment check". They said "you're off by XXX". They aligned it, I paid. Drove off, noticed the wheel was not centered. Took it back, they fixed it, and the paperwork clearly showed they put it back by the exact same amount, i.e. the alignment was not needed. I got a full refund and an apology.

 

I'd ask them if they could redo it. That would drive me nuts.

 

I appreciate the recommendations, I’m aware of my options. Just looking to have my question answered. Does the tie rod spin in the steering rack. Probably easier for me to tinker underneath and answer my own question!

 

Yes it does. Loosen the nut then grab a pair of channel locks and start turning. If you do this without it hooked to an alignment machine I can 99.9% guarantee you will end up with your wheel straight and your alignment all jacked up.

 

Not to point out the obvious, but the free work is causing you a long delay and time out of your life.

1) You do not know how to make the chane
2) You may have to do it many times before you get the wheel centered and too many adjustments later, the alignment is out.

If they are your buddies, they shouldn't mind helping you out to fix their slight oversight, which I'm sure it was since they are pro's.
Plus you get to spend time with them sharing stories instead of reading what us idiots write that waste your time.

 

I don’t mind crawling underneath and messing around with it, I just don’t have time (newborn, other honey do list chores). Work has slowed down and they are allowing mission critical personnel only. I have an appointment at an alignment shop, but don’t feel like paying $80 to straighten my steering wheel if it’s something as easy as loosening some threads and retightening. It looks easier to adjust with the old style drag link. Isn’t it as easy as extending one side 1/2 turn and taking in 1/2 on the other side or vice versa?

 

If you think it's expensive to have a professional do the job, wait until you have an amateur do it..