2005 F150: Time for new struts.
I put new rear shocks on this weekend and that only took 10 mins.
I know the front struts are another issue.

I can get the spring compressors from Advance Auto, but wonder.....

Is it a major job and I'd be smart to pay somebody to do it
OR
Is it not so bad and worth the time to do it myslef?

Is an alignment required after replacing the struts?

Any comment, help or advice is appreciated.

Thanks.

 

Depends on how comfortable you are on taking apart a front end. You will have to have the tire off, and take the strut out. After replacing the strut you will need an alignment because the strut is what will control your camber and caster. Also, if you slip up on the spring compressor you will have a white light experience (it slips and the next thing you will see is that bright white light...) It can be done, but if you have never done it before or dont have any experience in front ends, you might want to think twice

 

Thanks much for the reply.
I'm pretty comfortable tearing most anything apart and putting it back together.

The spring compressors do concern me just a little. I'd hate you knock my head off my shoulders trying to save a few bucks. But, then again, I figure if other folks can do it then so can I.

I guess I'll check and see what local shops charge. Maybe it will be easier just to pay, especially since I have to have the front end aligned.