The spider has officially emerged from winter hibernation, with six new tie rod ends and two new upper control arm ball joints! Thanks go out to everyone on the Alfa digest, who's "yes, that was kinda dumb, but if you do this you'll be fine" comments kept me from getting too nervous, and to Ellen, who's last minute assistance ensured the front wheels weren't pointing in different directions.

Oh it still pulls a little to the right, and the steering wheel isn't quite straight, but I was expecting that. One trip to the alignment shop should be all it needs for a full season of driving. Improvements? Oh I only thought the steering was responsive. Now that all the worn-out stuff has been renewed, you can nearly feel the texture of the asphalt through the steering wheel. It's a good thing.