re: Think I need new shocks... dealership or some local joint?

Never heard of that one. I guess it could be true but I doubt it. Shock doesn't hold the truck or wheel in any position. Just keeps the tire planted to the ground as much as possible when its moving around up and down from bumps and things like that in which helps with ride comfort.

Unless what they were talking about was the strut, where there is a spring/shock combo, it won't affect alignment.