2014 Ram 3500 Wheel Alignment Specifications

Quick Reference

Adjustability

On the 2014 Ram 3500, front toe is the primary factory-adjustable alignment angle. This is typically adjusted via the tie rod ends. Front camber and caster are largely non-adjustable from the factory. If these angles are out of specification, it often indicates worn or damaged suspension components, or a need for aftermarket solutions. The rear axle on a Ram 3500 is a solid axle, meaning that camber, caster, and individual toe are generally non-adjustable. Rear total toe and thrust angle are also typically non-adjustable from the factory. Significant deviations in the rear often point to a bent axle housing, damaged suspension mounts, or compromised leaf springs.

Recommended Adjustment Hardware

For correcting front camber and caster on a 2014 Ram 3500 when they are out of specification due to wear, modification, or minor impacts, aftermarket solutions are usually required. Common methods include:

• Eccentric Cam Bolts: These replace the factory bolts on the lower control arm, allowing for incremental adjustments to camber and sometimes caster. Brands like SPC (Specialty Products Company) are well-regarded for their quality and range of adjustment.
• Adjustable Ball Joints: Certain adjustable ball joints can offer additional camber and caster correction, particularly useful for lifted trucks where angles can be significantly altered.
• Slotted Brackets/Control Arms: In some cases, aftermarket control arms with slotted mounting points or specific eccentric bushings can provide a wider range of adjustment.

Before installing any aftermarket adjustment hardware, a thorough inspection by a qualified technician is crucial to diagnose the root cause of the alignment issue.

Symptoms of Bad Alignment

Ignoring alignment issues can lead to accelerated tire wear, compromised handling, and reduced fuel economy. Here are common symptoms and associated tire wear patterns:

• Pulling or Drifting: The vehicle constantly wants to veer to one side even on a flat road. This often indicates excessive positive or negative camber on one side, or an incorrect thrust angle.
• Uneven Tire Wear:
  • Feathering: One side of the tread block is worn smooth while the other side is sharp. This is a classic sign of excessive toe-in or toe-out.
  • Camber Wear (Inside or Outside Edge Wear): Excessive positive camber will cause wear on the outer edge of the tire, while excessive negative camber will cause wear on the inner edge.
  • Cupping/Scalloping: Irregular, localized dips in the tread, often indicating worn shocks/struts, but can be exacerbated by or mistaken for alignment issues.
• Steering Wheel Not Centered: Even when driving straight, the steering wheel is off-center. This typically points to an incorrect total toe setting or an unaddressed steering wheel angle during a previous alignment.
• Loose or Vaguen Steering: The vehicle feels difficult to steer precisely, or requires constant small corrections to stay straight. This can be caused by excessive toe-out or worn steering components.

When to Align

Regular alignment checks are good practice, but certain events necessitate an immediate alignment:

• After Suspension or Steering Component Replacement: Any work involving tie rods, ball joints, control arms, shocks, struts, or steering racks will alter alignment angles.
• After Installing New Tires: To ensure maximum tire life and even wear, an alignment after new tire installation is always recommended.
• After Hitting a Pothole or Curb: Significant impacts can easily knock alignment angles out of spec.
• When Noticing Alignment Symptoms: If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, have your alignment checked promptly.
• Every 15,000-20,000 Miles: As a general preventative maintenance measure, especially for heavy-duty trucks exposed to demanding conditions.

Typical Alignment Cost

The cost of a wheel alignment for a 2014 Ram 3500 can vary significantly based on location, shop, and whether any adjustments or parts are needed beyond a standard four-wheel alignment. Generally, you can expect to pay between $100 and $200 for a standard alignment. If specialized parts (like cam bolts) or extensive labor are required for correction, the cost will be higher.

Find a trusted alignment shop on Repairius.