Alignment Camber Wedge Kit Installation Guide

Installing an alignment camber wedge kit is an intermediate-level suspension task that typically takes 2–4 hours per wheel, depending on how accessible your vehicle's suspension components are. This guide covers the general process, but tools, torque specifications, and detailed procedures vary significantly by vehicle make, model, and suspension design. Before you start, consult your vehicle's service manual for exact torque values, suspension geometry data, and any model-specific installation sequences. If you're unfamiliar with suspension work or lack proper equipment, having a qualified mechanic perform or inspect this work is strongly recommended, as improper installation directly affects handling, tire wear, and vehicle safety.

What You'll Need

Tools

  • Socket set (metric and standard, as applicable to your vehicle)
  • Torque wrench (beam or click-type, calibrated for your vehicle's torque range)
  • Floor jack and jack stands (never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack)
  • Lug nut wrench or breaker bar for wheel removal
  • Adjustable wrench or open-end wrench set
  • Ratchet with extensions
  • Flashlight or work light for visibility
  • Wire brush or small wire wheel for cleaning threads and fasteners
  • Marker or paint pen for alignment reference marks
  • Pneumatic impact wrench (optional, but helpful for stubborn fasteners)

Parts & Materials

  • Alignment camber wedge kit (appropriate for your suspension type)
  • Replacement fasteners and hardware (bolts, washers, lock washers, and nuts as specified by your kit)
  • Anti-seize compound or general-purpose lubricant
  • Penetrating oil (for stuck or corroded fasteners)
  • Shop rags or paper towels
  • Safety glasses or protective eyewear
  • Work gloves

Before You Begin

  • Park your vehicle on level, solid ground and engage the parking brake. Use wheel chocks behind the rear wheels to prevent rolling, and never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
  • Wear safety glasses and work gloves throughout the installation process. Suspension components can be heavy and fasteners may have sharp edges.
  • Have a professional alignment performed before you install the wedge kit so you understand your vehicle's current alignment baseline. This makes it easier to verify results after installation and helps you track whether the wedge is having the intended effect.
  • If you encounter severe rust, stripped threads, broken fasteners, or suspension damage during removal, stop work and consult a professional mechanic. Corroded or damaged suspension components may require special tools, re-threading, or part replacement that's beyond DIY scope.

Step-by-Step: How to Install Alignment Camber Wedge Kit

  1. Secure the vehicle and remove the wheel. Loosen lug nuts while the wheel is still on the ground, then lift the vehicle using a floor jack and secure it on jack stands placed under the frame or designated lift points. Remove the wheel completely and set it aside in a safe location.
  2. Locate and mark the suspension strut or control arm fasteners. Using a marker or paint pen, mark the relationship between the strut/control arm and the steering knuckle or mounting bracket. These reference marks help you track how much adjustment the wedge is making and make it easier to achieve the target camber angle.
  3. Remove the fasteners connecting the strut or control arm to the steering knuckle. Using the appropriate socket and ratchet, carefully remove the bolts or fasteners that attach the suspension component to the steering knuckle. Keep fasteners organized and note their original positions. At this point, consult your vehicle's service manual to confirm the exact torque specifications, fastener grade, and any special installation sequences for your specific suspension design before proceeding further.
  4. Inspect the mounting surfaces and fastener holes. Examine the area where the wedge will sit for corrosion, dirt, or damage. Clean the fastener holes with a wire brush and remove any debris. If fastener holes are stripped or corroded, address this before installing the wedge.
  5. Position the camber wedge between the strut or control arm and the steering knuckle. Slide the wedge into place, aligning the fastener holes. The wedge's angle should face the direction needed for your desired camber change. Double-check alignment and position before tightening any fasteners.
  6. Insert fasteners and apply anti-seize compound. Apply a light coat of anti-seize compound to the bolt threads to prevent future corrosion and seizure. Insert the fasteners through the strut/control arm, wedge, and steering knuckle, but do not fully tighten them yet.
  7. Tighten fasteners to specification in a crisscross pattern. Using a torque wrench, tighten each fastener to the specification found in your vehicle's service manual. Follow a crisscross or alternating pattern to ensure even load distribution. Do not over-tighten, as this can damage threads or deform the wedge.
  8. Reinstall the wheel and lower the vehicle. Replace the wheel and hand-tighten lug nuts. Lower the vehicle carefully using the floor jack. Once the vehicle is on the ground, tighten lug nuts to the manufacturer's specification using a torque wrench, working in a star or crisscross pattern to ensure even clamping pressure.

Tips for a Successful Alignment Camber Wedge Kit Installation

  • Always perform a professional wheel alignment after installation. The wedge changes camber angle, but a certified alignment technician with proper equipment must verify that camber, caster, and toe angles meet manufacturer specifications and your performance goals.
  • Take reference photographs before disassembly so you can compare the wedge placement relative to the suspension geometry. This helps you catch installation errors and understand how the wedge is positioned relative to steering and suspension movement.
  • If fasteners are stuck or corroded, apply penetrating oil and let it soak for 15–30 minutes before attempting removal. Forcing stuck fasteners risks stripping threads or breaking bolts, which creates larger repair costs.
  • Verify that the wedge does not interfere with brake lines, cables, or other suspension components before tightening everything down. Movement during suspension travel could cause damage or safety issues.

When to Call a Professional

If you encounter stripped fastener holes, rust that has compromised the mounting surface, or broken fasteners that require removal or re-tapping, have a professional mechanic assess the damage. Older vehicles and high-mileage models—particularly domestic trucks and SUVs—often have severely corroded suspension components that require special tools, new hardware, or threading repair. Additionally, if you lack a floor jack, jack stands, torque wrench, or proper lift equipment, do not attempt this work at home. Improper support or fastener torque can create serious handling and safety problems. Finally, once installation is complete, have a qualified alignment technician with professional alignment equipment verify that all angles meet manufacturer specifications and that your vehicle handles properly. This final inspection is not optional—alignment work directly affects tire wear, handling response, and braking performance.

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