You don't have to torque the ball joint nuts loaded with the wheels on, since it is a ball-in-socket joint, and like you said a cone shape to seat properly. The assumption is that the balljoint shouldn't alter the pivot geometry, but the tolerances aren't perfect for that and there can be slight differences between parts, especially between old and new. We don't assume it's the same, we just account for the parts differences in the final alignment.xHeart wrote: ↑28 Aug 2023, 14:38Concur!chitownV wrote: ↑27 Aug 2023, 11:43
You changed the geometry attachment point at the knuckle, the ball joint, correct?
You also didn’t measure camber when loaded at ride height, which could also factor flexing bushings, right?
Using the strut as a reference point isn’t accurate because there’s some adjustment where the 2 lower strut bolts connect to the spindle. This is where you can make a tweak on camber. I’ve seen ay least 0.5 degrees in camber adjustment here with different XC90s.
What’s important with camber is always how the wheels and tires are when on the ground.
The aim was to keep the geometry at the knuckle-strut's upper bolt as close to 91mm, which would lower the wheel to same, or hair close to its intended position.
Attached to spindle, the ball joint having a cone shaped shank meant it would seat accurately at LCA by design with no change in slope; VIDA too doesn't caution for any change.
I have ordered a 21mm flare-crowfoot for the final torque of ball joint at LCA while the wheels are on the ground; likely on ramps.
Again, measuring from the strut is inaccurate because there is room to adjust the spindle angle. You said strut, so was going off of what you said. Going off the bolt is also inaccurate since it too has slight movement.
Good luck with the rest of your work.






