slob, there are some typo errors in your message. you forgot
[ and
] before and after "what a load of crap" and also
[/ and
] at the end. feel free to edit your message ...
I already explained on this forum why adjusting the steering wheel by removing it is not the proper method to solve this kind of problem. Just take a peek on my previous posts. Same thing applies for messing up with any other joint between the steering wheel and the drop arm. It's all in the service manual. Read it before saying or doing otherwise.
As for the good practice of checking the wheel alignment after changing steering/suspension parts (and I don't mean 2 bolts or 2 bushes on both sides), it's something you can read in any automotive tech training manual. For example, hope I'm not mistaking, it's in the Disco 3 tech training manual as well (available on another forum).
Checking the wheel alignment after fitting a new set of tyres it's a
very good practice. I don't mean you should do that when switching between the mud tyre set for the weekend and back to the road tyre set after that. I mean when buying a new set of wheels.
I won't bother to explain why. There are too many places on the net where people complain about their cars dragging to a side after fitting new tyres, they are advised to check the alignment and this proves to be the problem. Not mentioning that on an old and used set of tyres is difficult to spot misalignment issues (like a toe in/out out of specs from a very slight bent track rod) and my guess is nobody loves to spot them on the brand new set.
Spending 400 pounds for a set of BFG's and not spending another 10-15 quid (this is what I pay) for an alignment check and for the peace of mind that comes with it would be like buying a brad new car and not insuring it.
As for why the steering got "shifted" after changing the springs, the answer depends on:
- how old and what condition were the old springs in and when the last wheel alignment was done (related to their life), and
- something "written" between the lines when you read this (if you're familiar with the language, that is):
land rover spring specifications