We ran into an unexpected glitch with the front alignment. The shop (a very reputable local shop), says GM cars with the stub frame like this '68 have a common problem with the stub drooping due to supporting the weight of the front end for so many years. In our case, on the right side, he says there is a 2 3/4" error in alignment due to this "droop." Yes, that's 2 3/4"! He says he can correct it with hydraulic equipment to bend the frame. We know this car had front right collision damage many years ago which could have bent the frame.
There is a tire rub problem on the right side with the T/A 215-70r15 tires now in place. I've seen other First Gen Firebirds with this size tire and no rub problem.
As you may guess, I'm leery of the diagnosis, but know there is something not right due to the tire rub. The big issue is body panel alignment. We spent a lot of time getting it right, but I'd guess bending the frame to correct the problem would destroy panel alignment.
What are your thoughts? Could the problem be the aftermarket tubular A-arms? Why only on the right side?
