I took my '88 Trooper (2.6L 4cyl. 5sp. manual) to a local respected auto shop to see about an exhasut leak I was having and get them to take a look at the suspension. They said that the downpipe / header pipe is leaking, but the manifold is fine (but very rusted). They priced just the pipe at $158 and there labor is not cheap. My first question is if I should just buy the Pacesetter header that Independant4x4 sells? I have basic skills and all the tools necessary to to the work myself. The listing on Indy said that there may need to be fabrication to get the header to fit, is this true or just a general statement? As far as the suspension goes, they called and told me that the shocks are blown (which I pretty much knew), bushings are shot, and there is so much rust on the other components that they might just crumble apart when they are installing shocks/bushings. I want to buy Racho 5000s or compareable shocks, however I have no idea about the rest. What would the best option be for an suspension overhaul be without spending a ton? Is this a possible task to take on without taking it to someone who specializes in suspension? Thanks for the input!

~Carsonmnc
http://www.cardomain.com/id/carsonmnc