How hard to replace shocks and struts yourself w/aftermarket? any special tools or tricks? thanks for any contributions Dan-

 

Very easy for anyone with basic mechanical skills. No special tools, just a good craftsman set

 

With tools and a lift, I did it in less than two hours. The back is a 20-30 minute job. The front is more involved.

 

Don't forget, if you replace your front struts, you will need your front end alignment done again to be sure all is still up to specs. Especially if you have lowered your car via springs. I went with Tokico, great shocks and structs for the money. If you have quad shocks, you can very easily replace them as well. KYB makes a good set at a fair price. I think Steeda also sells quads. Rear upper control arms will help your whole a$$ end be more stable under acceleration and cornering.