Chassis setup / alignment systems?

[Terri Kennedy]

For those of you who do your own chassis setup / alignment, or at least supervise while a race shop performs the work, what system(s) do you / your shop use, and would you recommend it?

I've seen a number of systems in use and am looking at getting something so I can set up (and change the setup) on my Atom myself. I'm willing to pay more for ease-of-use (cost isn't critical) and speed of setup (prefer wheel-in-place over wheel-removal systems).

Lots of the systems seem to handle overall geometry well, but are more difficult / impossible to use for checking single wheels. For example, the Longacre toe kit will let you adjust toe, but you can't readily confirm that both sides are set the same - you only get the total (L + R) values due to the way it works.

[rumatt]

Smart strings (http://www.smartracingproducts.com/alignment.htm)

Seems to be the choice of DIY alignment autox'ers. I don't have them, but but Nick and Bren have used them.

I've did my E46 using strings on jack stands, and it was sort of a PITA. The smart strings is still pretty basic, but it allows you to raise and lower the car without having to readjust the strings. The idea is that once they are parallel and straight you can measure any wheel against them rather than just total toe.

[Nick M3]

Smart strings (http://www.smartracingproducts.com/alignment.htm)

Seems to be the choice of DIY alignment autox'ers. I don't have them, but but Nick and Bren have used them.

I've did my E46 using strings on jack stands, and it was sort of a PITA. The smart strings is still pretty basic, but it allows you to raise and lower the car without having to readjust the strings. The idea is that once they are parallel and straight you can measure any wheel against them rather than just total toe.
Smart strings. If cost isn't an issue, consider the Laser Strings. http://www.advancedracing.com/products2.php?prod=string2
(Note that their site is evil and resizes windows.)