Honda Prelude Forum - PreludeDriver.com

Hey,
First off, I'm new to the forum and wanted to say Hi. I own an 88 prelude 4WS SI.

Anyways, i need to get my wheels aligned, but i heard that for 4WS models, you would need a special "alignment pin". Not sure if this is true or is it just a rumor.

ohenry - Welcome! Glad to have you here at PDriver!

As far as I know, (and I will tell you up front that 3rd gens are not my specialty) the 1988 4WS was totally mechanical and does not require a lock-pin to align.

On the next version of 4WS, they went to electronic, with sensors and actuators and the rear actuator has to have a lock-pin in place to prevent damage to the actuator when working on or aligning the system. So I believe you are good to go.

I'm pretty sure that Spiffyquido will know this answer, he will be around soon to let you know if I am right or wrong.

Hang on until you hear from him just to be sure. He'll get to ya soon I bet.

And again, welcome.

~ Josh

welcome ohenry. Glad to have you here.

RedRacer is right about the 3rd gen 4ws system being fully mechanical, but there IS an alignment tool. It's a very special tool made specifically for the 3rd gen 4ws system. Unless you have the tool, I would take your lude to a Honda dealership to get it done. Don't go to another alignment shop, only Honda will do this correctly. When you get to the dealership ask to speak to a mechanic and ask if they have the 'Special alignment tool' for the rear rack of a 3rd gen prelude. If you get a blank stare, go to another dealership. You'll find someone who knows what you're talking about and knows how to do it right. Most dealerships should have the tool.

When I asked the question above, the mechanic was not only able to tell me about the tool, but also how it was supposed to be used. Honda mechanics are generally well trained, so you shouldn't have any trouble finding someone that will no the alignment properly.

Oh, interesting. Thanks for your help.