Strut change-'99 Windstar

Just thought I throw this out. I had ordered new struts and springs from Napa Here in San Jose (Mexico) for the Whinny and at that time they told me that they could mount the springs for me. However it turned out that they would install the new struts and mount the new springs for 440 Pesos ($42 US)!!! So of course I told them to go ahead. It would have cost me more than that to rent the spring compressor and various pullers. Anyway I watched the mechanic do the job. In reference to the various posts on this project, I paid close attention to the proceedure. The guy loosened the top strut mounting bolts first, then pullled the two wheels, disconnected the Sway Bar link, disconnected the Tie Rod End, and removed the Steering Knuckle bolt. He then used a 6 ft. long pry bar and a 4 pount hammer to slide the Steering Knuckle off the strut unit. He then removed the three bolts from the top of the strut. He did not remove the CV half shaft. He used the pry bar to allow the Knuckle to clear the bottom of the strut mount. He removed the left unit first and another guy dismantled the old strut to get the mounting/swivelplate, bushings and covers for the new springs and struts. I would recommend that if anyone is doing this job themselves, it would be wise to order the fully assembled Munroe "Quikstrut" They come fully assembled with a new spring and all of the mounts, seals and other hardware. I hope this helps anyone who is planning this job. Incidentally, the Van is now riding 2 - 3 inches higher than before the changeout and the alignment does not seem to be changed. The Tie Rod Ends just went back in same position as before. I will have it re-aligned on my next trip back to Canada.