Re: Alignment Tool
The alignment bar is not something that is a one time use item. You need it every time the drive is off, and that should happen at least once a year. If you plan on doing your own maintenace, the buy one.
Ebay sells them all the time for 40 to 60 bucks. Merc dealers can order you a new OEM one for even more, or you can make one if you have a lathe, there is a drawing up in the Adults Only-DIY stickies.
If you want to borrow one from your local dealer, ask them. But I doubt they lend them out.