2009 4Runner front shocks

[Morgen fix it]

Do I need any special tools to replace front shocks, I'm installing Bilstein shocks? Do I need a tool to deal with the coil?

 

[pearlj10]

You will need to rent a strut compressor (make sure you ask for strut, and not just coil spring compressor) to compress the springs, take the top nut off, reinstall compressed springs on Bilstein shocks, and put top nut back on. Also, a 17 mm ratcheting wrench comes in real handy for the top plate nuts - especially the one closest to the engine. You might want to pick up some castle nuts for the two tie rods, and definitely two new cotter pins for the tie rods. The tie rods have to come off to get the strut assembly out properly. Keep force on the tie rods using a pry bar if the nut and the tie rod bolt spin. It's pretty easy but take your time and torque everything back to spec (100# on the lower shock bolt). Good luck - the Bilsteins ride great!

 

[SP Jon M3]

There's a post over on 120 of a guy installing without using a spring compressor.

OME Install - no spring compressor - Toyota 120 Platforms Forum

 

[gm350reratliff]

I installed my Bilstein 5100's without any strut compressor. I followed the steps in the 120 post. I've done them before using a strut compressor but its almost easier doing it without. Having an impact wrench helps break bolts loose faster. I used a torque wrench and red locktite to tighten everything back up.

 

[Presta24]

I just replaced front shocks on mine, i got a set of spring compressors from autozones loan-a-tool program, $50 up front, when u bring em back u get ur money back, including tax. I laid the strut on my work bench and put a ratchet wrench on the top nut, then slid the tip of the threaded part of the shock in to my bench vice. Put the spring compressors on and tightend them down, then used the ratchet wrench to break the top nut loose. I also measured the length of the strut from the flattest part of the coil mount on the shock, to the top of the top plate before taking it apart so I would know how far down to tighten the top nut....just my .02, i dint have any help and it worked well for a one man job