After replacing those components you had it aligned, right?  If not, you
should. IMHO it's worth it to be insistent that they align to to spec, not
"close enough."  I'd go find a sole proprietor shop rather than a chain.
Talk up front about what you need/want. Pay the man's hourly rate rather
than the "$39.95 alignment special" price. Otherwise they'll tend to ignore
things like caster. (When you adjust the caster, it changes EVERYTHING else.
Caster adjustments are'fiddley'.)

Jim

--------------------------------------------------
From: "Jim Johnston" <inmytree1@GMAIL.COM>
Sent: Wednesday, January 05, 2011 9:33 AM
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Subject:      [VANAGON] Steering Question

> Hello all,
>
> I have a 1991 GL, Manual with a Subie 2.2.  In August 2010, I upgraded to
> 16
> inch Gowesty Steel Rims.  A few weeks ago I replaced worn upper ball
> joints
> and put on new shocks all around.  The lower ball joints looked ok, the
> tie
> rod ends looked a bit worn.
>
> Last week I noticed, when driving straight, my steering wheel is off
> slightly, whereas it I have to keep it slightly turned to the left (maybe
> an
> inch, if that) to keep things straight.  My first thought is alignment,
> but
> before I take it to a shop and drop some cash, I'd consult the list for
> other possible issues.
>
> Worn tie rods ends?  Worn upper bushings?  Steering Rack?  All of the
> above...?
>
> Any input would be appreciated.
>
> Jim
> Wilmington, NC