Changing Sturts/shocks -- Is it Do it your self type ??

Yup - not a difficult job if you have a spring compressor. Can rent or buy one ($20 for cheap one). When done you'll need to get a 4 wheel alignment. Your dust boots/spring mounts are probably gone so don't for get to get new OEM ones.

You can do it yourself with the aid of a spring compressor, but for Christs sake be careful. I've seen a few people get REALLY hurt while performing this operation. There is a huge amount of energy stored in the spring while it is compressed, and if it comes undone unexpectedly it will do a lot of damage.

Harbor Freight (.com for online) has a scissors type spring compressor for around $50 that looks a lot more secure than the cheaper threaded rod with little eye hooks type. They also have an air gun for around $80 with 650 ft. lbs. peak torque. I found a 5 gal. air compressor at Kragen for $99. Air tools make suspension work a _lot_ easier. Kragen also had the 30mm impact socket for the axle nut. I bought these tools as needed, most recently for changing the RH axle. Probably spent as much as if I'd paid someone else to do the repair, but now I have the tools for the other side, plus I really prefer doing my own work. Seems like every time I get into things where a prior mechanic has been involved (and I use the Factory service manuals) I find some item that was not done correctly. Found this when I changed the timing belt, water pump and seals, found this when I changed the passenger side axle. Personally, I trust the car a lot more when I know I've been through it myself. You can take the time to clean parts as you go, and replace questionable items before they fail. Changing the strut should not be difficult if you have the right tools and go carefully. There are really only two bolts that hold it to the steering knuckle and one bolt at the top - plus you need the alignment when done. If you want parts that fit and function as original - factory parts are the way to go. I also highly recommend the factory service manual set. Check on eBay. Also I find it very helpful to read all the instructions and visualize the repair before you begin, that way you have all the necessary tools and parts - cotter pins, snap rings, gaskets etc.