Should I get an alignment after replacing shocks/springs?

[Ptero]

I replaced shocks & springs (tokico HP & eibach pro-kit) on all 4 corners as well as replaced the drivers side tie rod. I didn't replace any bushings even though they badly need it (next project when I've got time). The car drives straight on the highway. Should I bother with getting an alignment?

[Arne]

Yes. The front toe especially changes with the ride height. So if you lowered it, you should have the alignment reset.

Of course, you'll just have to do it again when you do the bushings...

[beermanpete]

Yes. The work you did will effect the toe setting. If the toe is mal-adjusted the car will still go straight and seem to drive ok but could cause rapid tire wear and poor fuel milage.

[Ptero]

Good call. Appointment made.

[TomoHawk]

Would anything change if you only replaced the rear springs, dampers, and bushings? I think it would line up the back wheels better than before, but there really isn't anything to adjust in the back.

thxZ

[Arne]

True, properly replacing parts in the rear should not require an alignment, because there's nothing to adjust if the rear suspension is stock. I'd definitely recommend making sure that the rear is checked next time the front is checked, just to make certain that all is well.

[Ptero]

Well I got the alignment done as well my wheels balanced (which got rid of my steering wheel wobble at speed). There is still a bit of shake due to the rear right wheel being bent. Previous owner must have curbed it.

Alignment before:

Front

--------

Caster +2.2 +3.0

Camber +0.2 -0.72

Toe +3/8 +5/32

Total Toe +17/32

Rear

---------

Camber -1.08 -1.24

Toe -1/16 +5/32

Total Toe +3/32

Thrust angle -0.2

After alignment

Front

--------

Caster +2.2 +3.0

Camber +0.24 -0.72

Toe +1/16 +1/16

Total Toe +1/8

Rear

--------

Camber -1.04 -1.28

Toe -1/16 +1/8

Total Toe +1/16

Thrust angle -0.20

[TomoHawk]

I think my rear suspension R & R was successful

After a few short (30 mile) trips on the highway at up to about 80 MPH, there isn't any of the vibrations from before (what was probably chewing up the rear tyres.) And all without a rear-end alignment (why bother if there's nothing to adjust?)

FYI, I used Energy Suspension poly bushings, but the front will get rubber.

[sblake01]

I would at least get it checked. You won't necessarily feel an out of alignment rear end.