[64SS327]

The problem by adding the same amount of shims is they are completely different arms. Most likely with a different geometry. Even if the geometry was the same they will be different from slight manufacturing variances.

Even if you unbolted the same arms and tried putting them back on the alignment would NOT be the same as before you took them off. It would probably be very close but highly unlikely it would not have changed.

Like Joe said, you change one you change them all. There are no ifs and's or buts about it.

Most of the tubular control arms have extra caster built in to them for better strait line stability. They will usually have a sheet that the alignment shop can go by for setting the car to the new specs. By the time all the equipment is purchased most people would be better off to just take the car to an alignment shop. It will be much less of a headache and you will know for sure the car is set up correctly. If not you are just throwing your money away by wearing the tires out prematurely.

I'm not saying you can't or shouldn't. It just makes more sense to take it somewhere in my opinion. Which if you do take it somewhere it is a good idea to get the car as close as possible. At least the toe should be close as that can have the most drastic effects on handling and especially if you have to drive the car any distance to the alignment shop. Thankfully the toe is the easiest to adjust and requires the least amount of tools.

 

[64SS327]

Found an article about making your own alignment plates.

Make your own turn plates for a front end alignment

I forgot you will also need a way to set the toe. The string method works fairly well and will get you in the ballpark. You should check what the specs are for your car but 1/8" toe in is pretty standard. Due to possible different track width between the front and back of the car you need to make sure the string is parallel front to back. Your car should have an equal track width but it doesn't hurt to double check it.

Wheel Alignment Guide - Measuring Toe - Hot Rod Magazine Page 4

 

[64SS327]

The answer is yes you can do a basic alignment at home but not without a few special tools.

Camber is part of the alignment. When you changed the arms you also changed the toe and more importantly the caster. You can align the car if you have a caster/camber gauge (Joes Racing)and the service manual. A basic digital angle finder isn't going to get you what you need.

Joes Racing Products 99.95 - RacingPlus.com

You will also need some alignment plates that the tires will sit on so you can see what angle you are at when turning the tires. These can be made at home.

http://www.racingplus.com/alignment-tools/longacre/aluminum-turning-plates-set-of-2/1362p10562

You should do a little reading on the subject. A service manual is mandatory and reading through it will give a good indication what needs to be done and the tools needed. I found this article on the subject too and how caster, camber and toe all affect each other. The manual for you car should go into detail about this also.

Understanding and Adjusting Front-end Geometry