There are several pitfalls to avoid if doing this yourself and if the $500 quote includes a wheel alignment (necessary after a lift/level), that’s a pretty good deal for a lot of peace of mind.
That is what I meant, but it's more than a "lined up" procedure. It's toe, caster, camber. Probably toe and camber will be mostly affected, depending how you do the procedure, caster not so much. Regardless if you do it the UCA or the LCA way, the toe and camber will need correction.
If you want to do the install yourself, IMHO the safest way to do it is to disconnect the LCAs one at a time, of course, the UCA remains bolted in place. Yet, please make sure you run a strap between the two LCAs to avoid exactly the shaft pull. The straps keeps the disconnected LCA from pulling the CV or angling it (like in the UCA way). Of course there is the option to disconnect the shafts from the hubs, but that's not that easy.
Indeed, that's the way to go if you want to be on the safest route, yet with a wheel alignment they will anyway loosen the LCA bolts, there's no other option, so I did it the LCA way.
I did not have any rubs issues with the crash bars installed. I now have an aftermarket bumper which required the removal of the crash bars.
If you follow the directions it is a very simple job especially if you have ever messed with removing front struts. I did mine 19,000 miles ago and have had zero issues. It’s not a difficult install compared to other jobs. New intercooler, new front bumper, a bit more work but I’m not a novice when it comes to shade tree mechanic. All self taught over the last 40 years but if you are mechanically inclined at all and have the tools, do it. Then get a professional alignment.
Yup!
For sure!
