Is it a 2 or 4-wheel alignment I need for my '97?

[ntwrkguy1]

I'm having my '97 Pathfinder 4x4 aligned in the morning (it's drifting ever so slightly), and I was curious about something. The shop is a reputable one, and they offer 2 and 4-wheel alignments.

 

I thought that 4-wheel alignments were for cars with IRS? If you have a solid axle in the rear, why would you need the rear tires aligned? Or am I missing something here? And does the fact that it's a 4x4 have any bearing on the type of alignment I need?

 

Thanks in advance!

 

ntwrkguy1

[M in KC]

I don't know about your '97 but my '91 is only a 2 wheel alignment and its a 4X4 as well. My rear axle is solid and I'm pretty sure your's is as well. Aligning these rigs is not the easiest to do even with a good shop. So watch how she rolls when you're off the rack. And have the shop explain why you would need a 4 wheel alignment given the fact that you have a solid rear axle. That ought to be interesting.

[ntwrkguy1]

I'll definitely post their reply, if they do try to 'sell' me the 4-wheel alignment. Mine does have a solid rear axle, so they should be content with just aligning the front!