I paid $110 for each Bilstien non-CAT strut for my formally CAT 03 STR.

 

A grand for the steering knuckle??! You can get a whole suspension kit for that price.

Was the loose ball joint the upper or lower?

 

I have a 2003 S-Type about to get my front struts done. One place mentions I will need a front end alignment. Is this true?

 

I have the Arden billstines and it still has CATS. They are horribly expensive and the only time I even use the CATS is on road trips but then I am glad I have it. The Arden is pretty stiff in sport, to the point my buddy with a C6 ZO6 Vett commented that damn this thing is stiff LOL. It handles really, really good though!

 

Does anyone have experience.with the auto store brands like Monroe or Gabriel? How about kyb?

 

When ever you change anything in reference to suspension and steering, I would get the alignment done. Without it, the tires will wear faster on one side or another and then you have those issues. 800 and up for tires or under 100 for an alignment. you decide.