The local shop is replacing my balljoint and they said it will also require an allignment. They're saying about 2 hours for each. Am I getting ripped off? Or is this fair. Thanks.
Technically if the camber is off because of the BJ being worn AND YOU HAD AN ALIGNMENT DONE WITH THE BAD BJ, then an alignment could be needed (camber affects toe).
But if you didnt have it aligned with the bad BJ (most alignment guys check the BJ's, tie rods, etc before attempting to align), then the alignment is off now, but should be restored to being pretty correct once the new part is installed.
Some shops will do a computerized alignment *check* for 15 bucks or so. That might give you peace of mind.
Also, if your control arm bushings are worn, consider getting new control arms. They're a great deal if you need BJ's and LCA bushings.
If you want to try the BJ's yourself (esp if you have a friend whose done suspension work if you havent), we could walk ya through it. Lots of us have replaced them ourselves.
If I had a shop, I would do an alignment after suspension work as a CYA maneuver. You gotta cover all basis when dealing with the public at large. It's good practice to do it - we're just kinda anal about spending money and choose not to have an alignment after we do some work.
So in that regard, I wouldnt call it a scam. Just FYI.
And a lot of shops list labor rates from the book. Sometimes they take less time and sometimes more. Some of us can do a BJ in 30 mins, or we get a nasty bolt and it can take all day. Just more info.
Allright. Well then I guess the allignment is a good insurance measure. I doubt they would try to pull anything funny because my dad is one of their best customers. I'm splitting the repair with my dad but still, i don't want to be taken advantage of.
You can buy a pair of Ford Racing Lower A Arms for under 200 Bucks. They have new Bushings and upgraded Balljoints, you might want to consider this path over what you are doing now.
Whether you will need an alignment or not is argumental. Technically anytime the front suspension and steering is apart the alignment will change. Now whether or not the alignment is gonna be within tolerance afterwards, who knows. Nobody is gonna get everything back in the exact same place as it was before. I would rather pay the $30 now as opposed to 2 new front tires later. Also when was the last time you had it aligned? "They" say once a year for the average car. Also like Hissin said, its good insurance and business practice.
I'd get an alignment after a balljoint replacement. I was always taught to do it that way, and I have had good luck with it. Fox Mustangs are hard enough to keep aligned anyway.
I have a true automotive wizard that does alignmnent here, and I have watched him work after I have done the repairs, and it amazes me how much some minor things, like ball joints or strut changes will make in alignment. In my case, toe in is usually in need of adjustment.
I should take 20 min or less on a Mustang and be $39 to $59 or so.