Is an alignment required after changing front shocks?

Hi,
The MB service manual states explicity that an alignment is required after change of shocks.
My dealer argues otherwise.
I would appreciate any thoughts on whether an alignment is required and why.
Thanks in advance
farrukh

[autozen]

Technically the manual is correct, because OEM shocks are nitrogen filled and do affect ride height. I would guess that camber readings would be affected slightly and caster to an even lesser degree. Mercedes is anal about such things as torque specs for the screws that hold the glove box door on. So looking at the practical side,I'd have to agree with your dealer.After over 30 years in the business,I've never seen anyone send a car in for alignment just for changing shocks.

Good luck,
Peter

[mbdoc]

The cars that MB reccomends having the alignment rechecked after replacing shocks are those cars with front struts! The strut is the upper connection point of the suspension.