Toyota Repair: 1999 4Runner Shock replacement, strut assembly, 4runner

Question
Our stock 1999 4Runner Limited has just over 100,000 miles on it.  The truck is strictly a city driver.  We’ve been thinking about replacing all the shocks to help restore a more positive when driving and bring back the ride quality.  Not sure if our mechanic should replace the shocks, or is it better to replace the whole strut assembly?  Any benefit to replacing the whole unit?  At the same time, what other related items should be replaced during this process.   Is an alignment necessary after?  Thanks.

Answer
I would recommend an alignment after any suspension replacement of any kind. I don't believe in buying new items unless they're broken or completely worn. If the entire assembly is faulty, then replace it. If not, run it until replacement is totally necessary. If your truck is just a city driver, do you tow anything with it? If not, as a city driver I would focus more on the preventive maintenance due to the fact that "stop and go" driving is much harder on a vehicle than freeway driving.