[V8] Handfull 'o questions...

[toml99 at todomundo.com]

Hi all, well I just changed the caps/rotors/wires/oxygen sensor/ 
distributor and flange gaskets for their first time ever (98K) and it  
feels like someone slipped a turbo in there....always thought it ran/ 
idled great except for a slight surging(which is gone), and even  
though it had it's difficulties, thoroughly enjoyed working on it.  I  
plan on changing the tranny fluid and possibly some suspension parts  
which is where I have a few questions....
(a)  Do the exhaust/cat donuts need to be replaced when removed/is  
dealer only option as I haven't found them elsewhere?

(b) Noticed my front inner control arm bushings are torn(everything  
else feels tight/looks fine).  If I just replaced inner and outer and  
sway bar bushings, will I need an alignment.

(c)My tranny was replaced under warranty @ 48K(factory remanufactured  
unit which was listed on receipt as $4608) and the fluid hasn't been  
changed.  Receipt lists the fluid as ZVW366353(dead part number) for  
(get this) the whopping low price of $1.70/qt.(1997) Currently  
doesn't leak a drop.  Planned to remove the cooler lines and replace  
filter.  Been advised by a few as to use Mobil 1.  Anyone have any  
info/opinions on fluid?

(d)I also was going to replace the steering damper as when I took it  
out, it felt "bad"....but I was dying to drive the car and broke, so  
I sprayed some CorrosionX into the seal and pumped it a few times and  
now it feels like a smooth,weak shock.  Wondering if anyone knows if  
it's just a simple piston and seal, or if it's gas filled....

I hope all are well and any info would be greatly  
appreciated....Sincerely Tom Laplante