Front shocks/alignment?

Do you need to get an alignment if you replace your front shocks?
Truck doesn’t need one now and I’m considering swapping out stock shocks with the stock Bilsteins

 

Yes it will need an alignment. You will need one any time you loosen or replace any of the suspension components.

 

hmm.... i have never heard of an alignment being required when replacing a shock. the only time that an alignment would be required is when you change the ride height. if you are going from 1 stock shock to another, you should be fine.

 

I think it depends on what method you use to remove and replace the shock. If you loosen the cam alignment bolt on the LCA you probably need to realign. I'm not a pro and am likely wrong.

 

yeah, maybe. if the position on that bolt moves, then i suppose an alignment is in order

 

No, you are correct. The slightest movement on the LCA cam bolt can throw it off.

 

If you remove your stock front coilover shocks, and replace with same length units, at same height setting (if adjustable ones), it could be done without an alignment, depending on what parts you loosen to do the job.

If you loosen the lower control arm cam pivot bolts, or remove steering tie rods, or replace upper control arms, you should do an alignment to prevent tire wear.

Anytime you replace tires, always get an alignment to protect your tire investment.

Anytime you adjust or replace anything having to do with alignment adjustments, (Lower control arm cam pivot bolts, Steering tie rod ends, Upper control arms, replacing hub/spindle) you should do a new alignment, if you want to prevent tire wear, or poor driving/steering performance.