mikekaro

My 05 SL65 pulls left when accelerating, cruses straight. Did some searching, not sure if this is an alignment issue, or a worn ball joint or something else? It has the same tires on it, but one of the stock wheels has been replaced.

Any ideas on what I should be looking at?

Thanks

ItalianJoe1

Check bushings and tire pressures, how is the alignment though? Ride height can make a difference on these cars with ABC.

mikekaro

I can see alignment being an issue, is there something specific in ride-height I should be looking at?

ItalianJoe1

Just not being where it should be. Camber/caster changes with height, and dynamically moves as the car lifts during acceleration (not much on an ABC car but it still happens). Have the alignment properly checked and adjusted if you aren't sure.

mikekaro

Ugh. Actually turned out to be a flat rear tire on the driver's side. Didn't notice it at 1st. So I guess it was pushing left instead of pulling left.

One thing about this car... every time something doesn't feel right, my wallet in my pocket starts to get very warm...

Tomcat SL

Same thing happened to me with another brand of car...low rear tire pressure made it drift upon acceleration (only)

ItalianJoe1

Glad it was something simple. Weight transfer was causing that tire to crush more under acceleration and that's why you felt it.