Alignment... When and When Not To

[cgarrett5119]

I have an alignment question. When should I do it and when should I not do for the following scenarios? These mods would be done in a driveway and not at a shop. Think of them as separate events or mods.

1. New springs and shocks
2. New leveling kit
3. New wheel spacers
4. New rims and tires (should they be balanced as well)?

 

[MikeInNH]

With the exception of replacing shocks...any time you work on suspension or steering...you should get an alignment.

I get one every spring...after dealing with a long winter and pot holes.

 

[Sungod]

1. Yes for springs, shocks not typically, but if you are changing to a load leveling shock or had a damaged shock that restricted travel, yes.
2. Yes
3. No
4. No

The first two will change angles and that is what forces an alignment. This is assuming that your alignment was perfect and you replaced or added parts. The second two you would want to have the alignment checked because you want your tires to last. They won't change your angles, but could change your wallet if you had to buy new tires because your alignment was off.