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The Durango was marketed as a sturdy truck-based SUV designed to hold up to seven passengers and tow up to 7,500 lb (3,400 kg) when properly equipped.

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Alignment is off after hitting a parked car, how do I diagnose it?

So long story short. The durango I'm working on has damage done to the entire right side including the body. The concern is while the steering wheel is straight.( Im not a mechanic by any means, but I have been able to fix my own cars with no issue. I apologize for not knowing the name of parts.) The left wheel is straight but the right wheel appears to be off by a little over 20 degrees to the right. The only thing that stands out is a bent ball join on the lower control arm. Im also feeling a little more movement than I should in the power rack connecting to the right wheel. I don't have access to a chilton repair guide. So how would I go about eliminating problems? Ive tried adjusting the upper control arm because after the accident it was loose enough to move by hand. That didn't help anything. After trial and error of the upper control arm Ive eliminated that as an issue. Tie rod is also is good shape. When turning the wheel in both directions it will worsen the angle it is off. The durango isn't worth enough for me to bring it to a shop. Nor do I have any speciality tools. Id like to get it up on the road and driving again.

Update (09/23/2017)

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This isn't an answer, These are the pictures of what I believe is the problem. (Mr.Chomsky)

Answered! View the answer I have this problem too

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Thank you everyone for helping me out. Im not back on the road yet, but Im a !&&* of a lot closer!

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Mr. Chomsky It would appears there is also a crack in the casting of the yoke for the hub assembly , You'll need to replace the yoke and hub assembly as well . the ball joints wont seat properly with the crack . You should also check the other side as the damage can travel through the rack to the other end . Pay particular notice to the tie rod end both inner and outer . An impact can break the cup on the inner tie rod . The manual @oldturkey03 has provided is excellent (as always kudos to the master of manuals) You should also check you drive shaft joints as the impact can break the casting in the knuckles. while replacing the hub the wheel bearing will need to be replaced. Not that its damaged but you'll probably destroy it trying to remove it from the old hub. Normally I would provide YouTube videos but the guide will be just as helpful . you will defiantly need a front end alignment when your done. This can be done by you if you want to find a video on you tube . If you get stuck during your repair dont hesitate to ask for help .. Hope this helps

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Thank you, Ive used ifixit for my electronics repair before. I found out today that its useful for so much more. p.s. I have a "my garage my rules" metal sign in my garage lol. Ill be sure to come back with updates as well with any questions I may have. I won't be able to get to these things today. If needed, Ill have up dates/questions tomorrow.

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Most Helpful Answer

Mr. Chomsky both upper and lower ball joints look like they require replacing. Start with that first, then recheck. I don't have access to a Chilton repair guide either ;-) but the suspension chapter from the workshop manual should at least get you started. Dodge-Durango-Suspension.pdf

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thank you, the guide looks awesome!

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Holler if you need more.

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"I won't be able to get to these things today. If needed, Ill have up dates/questions tomorrow"- copy and pasted this from my comment to Jimfixer. Thank you again for providing a manual.

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Mr. Chomsky will be eternally grateful.
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