I agree with Tech about Carroll Smith book as a very good reference to understanding the ins and outs of how/why the geometry works---

After working on dozens of suspension systems in street rods, kit Cobras, etc I bought an used Hunter alighnment set up that used 4 stands about 2 feet off the floor and used the older school string set up--------after a while ( since GM let Caddie dealers have Suburban) all Caddie dealers had to get longer alignment racks and many used early alignment lifts were available reasonable $$$. I bought one in very good shape with 4 wheel options.

Also , what most people do when they are doing the patterns and travel is that they lift the wheel up and down to check the stuff, when in reality you need to leave wheel at ground level and raise/lower the frame/suspension--------remember the ground doesn't move up and down-the vehicle does-anyway, with the Hunter, not only could I measure (read out) the values, I could also check for clearance/interference with other components-----like tires rubbing steering links/ exhaust/ traction arms/control arms at full turn up and down limits. I also always worked with tires/wheels that were planned for the build so fender clearance, brake line, etc could be dealt with ------

So anyway, gets lots of poster board paper, big cardboard box panels, chalk, magic markers, plumb bobs, levels, lazors----and a auto darkening welding helmut--------