Front Coil spring install!

[jackchan]

As you may have figured out the front struts, coil springs and brakes is not my strong points on a fox body. There with that said, I am planning on replacing my cut drag race springs with my stock springs because of my front end sitting to low. What is the best way to go about getting the STOCK front coils back in? It seems I remember re-installing these in the past without a coil spring compressor and without much trouble. Last night I removed my "cut springs" and didnt see anyway in hell to reinstall my old stock springs without it being a major pain. Also, has anyone ever installed roller bearings in the control arm pivot points to reduce unsprung friction?
thanks
Ben

 

[Rick 91GT]

Spring compressor is by far the safest way.....with out them the spring becomes a missle if it lets loose.

 

[jackchan]

thanks


what do you think about the roller bearing idea in the control arm points? would that help weight transfer?
Ben

 

[FORCED2DV8]

It may free up some resistance, but it would creat alot of road noise I would think. You could always try it. If you dont like it switch back.

 

[Shakerhood]

Spring compressor is by far the safest way.....with out them the spring becomes a missle if it lets loose.

X2

 

[v8only]

leave the strut bolted on, slip the front spring on, put the jack at the back of the control arm closest to the inside of the car, and jack the jack up, guiding the spring/control arm at the same time. you don't need a spring compressor.

for safety's sake you can chain the spring and lock it to the frame.

 

[jackchan]

I dont think i can get the spring in with the strut bolted up but I'll try it tomorrow night
Ben

 

[Euphoric306]

strut bolted up, but the pivot bolts unbolted. easy squeezy japaneezy

 

[jackchan]

ahhhh I actually heard of that working, but would that actually be easier or would it be easier to just use the spring compressor?
thanks
Ben

 

[v8only]

if you have access to the correct spring compressor then sure, use that. I did it with lowering springs and no spring compressor. lowering springs makes life a ton easier.

 

[Euphoric306]

some lowering springs... the eibach prokits are taller than the ford racing springs and are a bit tricky at first.


yes, unless you have the correct spring compressor than don't **** around with the other ****, it's pain and doesn't work at all

 

[slvrvert91]

Spring compressor is by far the safest way.....with out them the spring becomes a missle if it lets loose.

how much are spring compressors? where do you get them? Any auto store?

 

[gruvee87vertgt]

listen...I have switched springs on a couple cars now..........I would recommend going to have it done at a shop. they usally charge $100.00


lowering springs are always simple to put on. stock takes so much time and effort. if you have never done it i wouldnt, also get a chain and a lock just incase.

 

[gruvee87vertgt]

also, MFE and someone else has a writeup around here.

 

[GearHd6]

if you have never done it i wouldnt, also get a chain and a lock just incase.

Best advice ever right there! Dont take chances with a flying spring, it can kill you.

 

[Mavrick]

My C springs with urethane isolators/insulators went in with some muscle. I also recommend using a safety chain or strap, those springs can be dangerous!!

 

[Shakerhood]

how much are spring compressors? where do you get them? Any auto store?

A tool supply company should be able to provide you with the Correct Ford Style Compressor.

 

[niklid05]

craftsman has a sping compressor thing for 40 bucks or so. You need a 13/16 wrench i believe for the nut. took off all of my rear springs with them.

 

[ka0tyk]

im sorry but ive installed both stock and aftermarket springs... eibach, ford c springs, and H&R's on numerous cars. while a spring compressor is needed to get the stockers back IN, its just a waste of time for removing them... wether its stock or aftermarket. i just undo the strut bolts to the spindle, step on teh control arm and get it to its lowest point possible and then pry the spring out of the cup. sure it makes a pop sound but its nothing that would kill you or break any bones... after it pops it just rolls off onto the ground.

you guys crack me up.

 

[jackchan]

same here kaOtyk.
I've seen articles that show how to remove the rear part of the control arm (front springs) while leaving the strut attached, (i read this article this morning) so I may try that, tonight if it doesnt work then I'll rent a compressor from the local advance autoparts or Oreilys.
the rear springs have never been a problem, non has removing the front springs. The key to removal is letting the jack down easy until the arm reaches it lowest point.
thanks guys for all the replys....I'll tell you the easiest way tonight with pictures!
Ben