Oh boy. Did you specify what the alignment settings the shop should use? Are we talking about a shop that does custom alignments and suspension work or a tire shop? Most places that do alignments these days will only set the specs that are in the computer, and wouldn't have the foggiest idea what to do with an adjustable strut rod.
You don't need a machine to check your alignment, but you will need some kind of caster/camber gauge. A set of toe plates would be handy too, but not necessary. If you have a nice smooth concrete floor and some dish soap you can get by without a set of turn plates.
You're jumping the gun, without knowing what his caster is even set at or how the length of the strut rods was adjusted telling him to change the ride height and caster is completely premature. Suspension parts have been repaired, aftermarket parts have been installed, there are a lot of things that could be contributing to this issue.
