Corner Balance and Alignment?

[A.T.]

I've been reading some of the earlier threads on this topic and a corner balancing sure sounds like a good idea. I think I understand the principle. In fact I'd think it should just be a standard part of a proper set up. Why is it that most of the shops around here (Toronto) down play it? They'll usually say, "it's really not important unless you're racing." Those concidentally are also the shops that don't have the scales. I'm about to go to a shop that has access to scales and will do it if I really want them too. How difficult is it to do? How much time should it take? I'm not racing the car but seem to be spending more time doing DEs than touring.

Thanks for any advice.

[Chuck Miller]

A.T.,

If you drive your car any further (and faster) then to the corner store it has been my experience that you will notice a WORLD of difference with a proper balance and alignment......
And any proper Porsche wrench will know this...

Actually our cars are very adjustable... Clutch, brake, and accelerator pedals, ... shifter, and seat height...... When all these are dialed in it adds to a MUCH more controllable, pleasant, and comfortable driving experience....

This was done to my car the first month I had it.......... and it drove like a completly different car...

Cheers, and hope this helps

[HarryD]

About two years ago, I refreshed my suspension and had Rothsport (my local P-car speed shop), do some chassis tuning. I spent some time with the shop so they undrstodd what my driving plans were (once a month AX, DE's 1-2x year, and mostly driving with 1 to 4 passengers for fun). In addition to the alignment and corner balance, they lowered my car significantly. In spite of the fact that I kept my old, rock hard tires, the difference was stunning.

I would suggest you find a shop that sets up P-cars for competition, tell them how YOU want to use the car for and have them do the work. If it is anything like my experience, I did not pay much more than my usual shop and the outcome exceeded my expectations.

[John P]

A local shop that focuses on track early 911s (and has all the scales/equipment) told me that, since I don't track my '71, a 4-wheel alignment is fine. He does, however, recommend a corner balance for all SWB cars (regardless of use) because "they tend to be a mess and really benefit from a corner balance."

John

[RickS]

When I first picked up my '73, it handled well, but lacked a certain well planted reassuring feel. After, a 4-wheel alignment, 3 shot bushings replaced, and a corner balance, the confidence building handling was night and day. It felt like a completely different car. Would I recommend doing it - if it has never been performed before - absolutely.