Chrysler Repair: Strut & Spring Replacement, hot rodders, alignment rack

Question
I see that now complete strut and spring assemblies are available for my 97 Chrysler T&C minivan.  For extra money, I don't have to fool with spring compressors, etc.  Do you have any opinion about these assemblies?  Anything else to replace or look for in particular when I do the job.  Van has 133K+ miles and original front end.  Thanks.

Answer
Hi Larry,
I haven't been in the market for a strut lately so was not aware of that option. I have not had any problems with strut replacement where I used the weight of the vehicle to compress the spring, then I put 4 j-bolt/U-clips spaced evenly around each spring and containing as many coils as I could catch (these are kits sold as 'coil spring lowering kits' to hot rodders for maybe $10-15). Then when you jack up the car and remove the strut assembly the spring is nicely contained under compression. But make sure you use all 4 clamps in the kit on each spring so that the spring doesn't break loose on you; lots of stored energy there!
I would replace the cushion(s) on which the spring rides as these have a tendency to wear through where the tip of the coil contacts the metal pad at the end of the spring. Otherwise you get squeaking sounds.
Other than that, I can't suggest anything else. Do note and mark if possible the position of all the fittings that need to be disassembled so that the alignment is as close to original when you get it re-assembled. It will need wheel realignment
no doubt, but that way you will be closer to "true" when the process is undertaken on the alignment rack.
Of course do one side at a time. And do you have a manual for the steps and torque values? I have a '93 van manual if that would be of any help; I can xerox copy and mail you the pages on the strut replacement.
Roland