Pontiac Repair: Backyard or pro, 1969 camaro z28, steering linkage

Question
Hi Ed
I recently bought an old vehicle from a friend,a 64 Pontiac Parisenne.
Its not a show car,but he made it driveable and painted it-a cool beater for my son.
It looks and drives OK but I thought I would have it looked over at a professional garage.
What they told me was that it looked OK to them but it needed extensive front end work-ball joints,steering stuff,etc.(It is not power steering).
I looked under neath and they were right.
My question is,is this kind of work better left to the pros,with a hoist,or can my friend the back yard mechanic do it?He has no hoist or pit,just a jack.
He can do the basic stuff that can be done under the hood but not much else (in my opinion).
I know I am spending tons more having a pro do it,but I feel safer.
In your opinion,what is safe for a backyard guy like my frind to do and what is better left to the garage? Thanks!

Answer
Hi,Barry
 That is a beautiful car,ive owned a few of the early classics myself and i am still a proud owner of a 1969 Camaro Z28,on your question,this is something that you need to go with your gut instinct on,i for one would rather have a professional do that type of work,reason is is that the ft suspension whether ball joints and steering linkage must be done correctly,if a ft suspension were to fail either installed incorrectly could lead to loss of control either causing major damage to the vehicle or worse your son,i understand that having that type of work can be expensive,but i believe you would rather spend a little more for the piece of mind that the car is fixed right the first time and is safe to be driven and enjoyed.
 Ive rebuilt complete vehicles without a hoist,so it can be done,but i have 21 years doing that type of work.let me know how it comes out,and what you decided,im here to help you along if you need it.Thanks


ED