lowering and allignment

If I throw in some lowering springs does this thing need to be aligned?

Yes. Whenever suspension components or tires are replaced, you car would need an updated alignment.



That being said:

I've lowered my E34, swapped shocks 4x, and rebuilt the front end twice. On my Z ive installed coilovers along with various wheel and tire setups on both and have never gotten an alignment in my life on any car.