Does anyone know if switching back and forth between original and after-market shocks is considered a minor or major alteration?  Replacement with a like unit is obviously not, but how about replacement with an equivalent unit?  The replacement serves the same function but has different characteristics.  How much of a change constitutes and alteration?
from Part 43 app. A
(a) major alterations -- (1) Airframe major alterations. alterations of the following parts and alterations of the following types, when not listed in the aircraft specifications issued by the FAA, are airframe major alterations:
(i) Wings.
(ii) Tail surfaces.
(iii) Fuselage.
(iv) Engine mounts.
(v) Control system.
(vi) Landing gear.
(vii) Hull or floats.
(viii) Elements of an airframe including spars, ribs, fittings, shock absorbers, bracing, cowling, fairings, and balance weights.

Chris Zavatson