Is it necessary to get a front end alignment after replacing the front shocks? Unlike a strut it seems that removing and replacing the coil over assy has no influence on the front end alignment (except maybe camber if you change the springs). Am I correct in my thinking or does it need to be re-aligned?

 

When you loosen the upper shock mount from the shock tower, you are also loosening the upper A-arm. Whether that's enough to require an alignment is sort of subjective. It is located by the 4 bolts and studs that hold the upper mount, but who knows if there is any "slack" in the system?

 

I would have to say no. You are not loosening or moving any of the adjustment bolts for the front end alignment. I know if you change springs you need to have it done or replace any bushings such as the lower a-arm. But as far as the strut goes, you will not need to get it re-aligned.

 

Having done this in the recent past, I would have to say you probably will. It all depends on how you seperate the lower A-arm ball joint. If you can do it without damaging it, then I tip my hat to you, but chances are, when you try to use a pickle fork to seperate the ball joint from the lower A-arm, you're going to destroy the joint. Besides, it's a good time to replace those ball joints anyways. It's good piece of mind.

 

I agree with Fred, but if there is any "slack", it is going to have minimal impact, IMO. You can also remove the shock/spring assy without opening a ball joint, it is a little tight, though.

 

You don't need to separate the lower ball joint, unless you also want to pull the lower A-arm. Its a lot easier to separate the upper ball joint - it will sometimes come loose with a light tap of a hammer on the side (not on the threads!!). I've had people tell me thy managed to get the shock/spring assembly out without separating either ball joint.

 

Buy yourself a ball joint "puller". They're about $7 and make it easy to press out the ball joint without damaging anything. I picked up my from Habor Freight...cheap tool that works great. Sears probably carries one for double the price.

 

you do not need to remove the lower ball joint from the spindle to get the shock out. and no you will not need to get an alignment afterwards either. the adjustment points are on the lower arm bolts that hold it to the crossmember. i can't see how they did it without removing the top balljoint though. that's too much aggrevation right there because the upper control arm support slips over the studs for the strut mount to hold it into place.

 

tires are way too expesive not to get it alignment..One tire is about the cost of 2 alignments. An alignment is cheap insurance that tires will last as long as possible. It is up to you, IT's your ride!

 

i own a suspension/alignment shop. i wouldn't tell you not to get one if what you were removing would change the alignment.