[Dave at Pelican Parts]

You won't disturb any of the parts that determine the alignment if you use Tidybouy's method, above. If you're changing tie rods or anything else that does determine the alignment, then you will need to get yours checked after the swap.

The "special tool" that Haynes talks about is for removing the gland nut. I, too, use a pipe wrench. If I had an air chisel I would use that... Most new shocks come with new gland nuts, so you can shred the old one if you have to.

If you go with the pipe wrench, be careful not to chew up the top of the strut housing too badly.

It can help to have a second pair of hands to hold things steady while you loosen and tighten the various nuts and bolts (particularly that gland nut, and also the nut that holds the top of the strut in the trunk), but it is not strictly necessary. Not if you can use your feet to hold the roadwheel steady.

--DD