Front tires going off direction

[gaspump]

On my new 850, I have a problem. The left side tire is pointed straight, aliens with the fender. The right side tire is pointing a little to the outside, when looking down at it from the top. It rides nice and all. What would be the first suspension item you would look at, or what many items would you look at to correct this. PO said it needs an alignment, but it looks more than just that. Thanks

[MIKYZZ4]

Perform a visual inspection for bent or damaged suspension components.
Check to see if a simple tie-rod adjustment can improve wheel position,
if so, an alignment is needed.

[shogun]

you mean 850 G15 or E31 850? In case E31, adjust the steering links, same as shown here http://www.bmwe34.net/E34main/Mainte...ering_link.htm
For my E32 750 (same system) I use for the wheel alignment a Trakrite http://www.keep-your-car.com/Trakrit...lignment-Gauge

[TostitoBandito]

Just get an alignment. Adjusting the tie rods for proper toe and centering the steering is part of that. What you're describing simply sounds like the toe is waaay off on one side. After I refurbished my entire suspension and swapped steering racks my eyeballed toe was probably way worse than yours even and I was able to drive it to the shop without any issues (other than having to hold the steering wheel at a slight angle to go straight).

You might check first to see if something is clearly broken or loose. The tie rods have nuts which are loosened to allow them to be adjusted/rotated and then tightened to hold their position after. Also look at the ball joint on the end of the tie rod where it meets the wheel/hub. Any reputable alignment shop should be able to tell you if something obviously needs fixing/replacing, but it may be cheaper/easier to DIY that first and then get it aligned (depending on your skill level). Not a bad idea to replace the tie rod ends regardless if they're old. It's not too difficult to do once you pry the old ones off the hub, isn't very expensive, and you should be able to find plenty of DIY's for it.

[shogun]

Moved to E31 forum from suspension tech handling forum, as I just found out that in another thread you mentioned "my new 1992 850"

[gaspump]

Thanks. It was bad lower control arms, bushings, and tie rods. All good now and getting an alignment friday. Already feels like a new car.