Miata Mailing List: August 1994, Message #97
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   From: inh_lan!matt@inuxs.att.com
Subject: Re: wimpy alignment
   Date: Thu, 4 Aug 1994 08:25:47 -0400


>I am planning on having my alignment done and I'd like to know what alignment
>specifications I should bring into the shop. 
 
Any shop that is good enough to touch your miata will have either the shop 
manual or a CD-ROM with the specs on it.  If the shop you use does not have 
either one, take it somewhere else, is my suggestion.

>... (bunch of stuff about typical driving patterns)

I would highly recommend that you have the shop either place weights in the 
driver side seat to match your weight or have someone (yourself?) sit in the 
seat while the alignment is being done.  Again, this is a good test of your 
shop.  If they stare at you funny or laugh when you suggest this, walk out (or 
hang up).  A good mechanic will know why you are asking for this 'special' 
treatment and will respect you for it.  The miata (especially 90 & 91 models) 
are very alignment sensitive and will either handle improperly (at aggressive 
cornering attitudes) or vibrate at highway speeds if things are not done right.

My mechanic actually has one of his cohorts sit in my car while the alignment 
gets done.  He weighs about 10 lbs more than me but I figure it comes out in the
wash.  Great service!

>Thanks,
>Dan

Hope this helps!
Matt