4 Wheel Drive/SUVs: Ball Joints, ball joints, reputable shop

Question
My daughter took her 96 ford explorer, non 4x4 to get it aligned today.  They told her that the ball joints, upper and lower needed replacing, cost estimate at 700.00.  They alse said that they couldn't align the front end because her car needed some type of cam installed.  THe vehicle has about 160,000 mi. on it.
Does this all make sense or should we get another opinion?  

Thanks,
Penny

Answer
Penny,

This wear is normal, especially with the mileage.  I'm not sure about the cam, as there is a cam that is used to align the front end in some of the 4x4's, but the 2 wheel drive model would use a different front end.  

I would, definitely take the Bronco to another shop, and get a 2nd estimate.  You might ask around, and see if someone can recommend a reputable shop.

Carl