This bulletin applies to Fiat 500 vehicles. Rear-axle alignment shims are available in a kit containing two shims and replacement spindle mounting bolts. The front shim is used to correct an out-of-specification toe-in condition and the rear shim is used to correct an out-of-spec toe-out condition. Only one of these shims (front or rear) will be used as needed. The unused shim may be discarded.
Before ordering the axle alignment shim kit, first attempt to correct the toe-out condition by adjusting the alignment thrust angle until a zero thrust angle is achieved. If the toe angle is still out of spec, use the axle alignment shim to correct the angle. A shim will provide approximately ¼ degree of toe correction. Do not use more than one shim per axle side and do not stack shims.
Do not completely remove more than one spindle bolt at a time to prevent the spindle and wheel assembly from rotating or coming off of the vehicle, as brake hose damage may occur. Loosen but do not remove all four spindle bolts on the side of the axle requiring a shim. To correct a toe-in condition, insert the front shim between the axle and spindle.
The new spindle bolts feature a thread adhesive and are required to be replaced every time they are removed. Do not re-use the old bolts.
Example of left side front shim placement (1) Axle; 2) Front shim.
Example of left side rear. 1) Rear axle; 2) Rear shim.
About the Author
Information courtesy of Mitchell 1
Information for Technical Service Bulletins comes from ProDemand, Mitchell 1's auto repair information software for domestic and import vehicles. Headquartered in San Diego, Mitchell 1 has provided quality repair information solutions to the automotive industry since 1918.
Mike Mavrigian
Motor Age Editor
Mike Mavrigian has written thousands of automotive technical magazine articles involving a variety of specialties, from engine building to wheel alignment, and has authored more than a dozen books that crisscross the automotive spectrum. Mike operates Birchwood Automotive, an Ohio shop that builds custom engines and performs vintage vehicle restorations. The shop also features a professional photo studio to document projects and to create images for articles and books.