Wow, thanks to everyone for their responses...some great detail there.
After reading through the reply's, I've come to the conclusion that I'm mostly just paranoid because it's something new to me that I've never done before.
I'll have to try the handbrake, 2nd gear trick to see how my cluch is doing...since I'm the second owner, I'm kinda suspiscious of how the previous owner drove...there goes that paranoia again..geez :|
I think my alignment is OK, but I'm not sure...I'd imagine that front and rear alignment have more effect on an AWD car...so maybe I do have a problem.
Thanks again to everyone for the friendly advice.
Chad