I am thinking to lower my 1996 civic to 1.3 inch in front and 1.1 to rear. Do i need to change my stock shock? also i am going to put 17 inch rims on it.

 

prepare to get a camber kit if i'm not mistaken .....

 

You are mistaken.

With a 1.3 drop it's not extreme. You could get away with stock shocks, but they will wear out quicker over stock springs. When they do blow out or wear out, you can just buy some nicer shocks.

I would recommend a camber kit with a drop more than 2" or so. Just make sure to get an alignment after you install the springs. Ask if they can set the toe to around 0 front and rear to prevent some tire wear. Most places will set to factory settings which is toe in about 1/8" or so. Toe wears tires, but with toe and camber out of whack your tires will wear quicker.

 

Camber affects toe so you will need an alignment after the install. I recommend just buying some shocks and be done with it instead of playing the waiting game with your stock shocks. I always say do it right the first time, it will save you money and time.