Coil spring compressors - what are you using?

[thezentree]

I need to swap springs on my front coilovers, so I ordered this spring compressor:

Amazon.com: Coil Spring Compressor Tool, Orion Motor Tech Macpherson Strut Spring Compressor,13/16in Socket 1/2in Drive: Automotive

The hooks don't fit between the coils on the unloaded spring, so they are definitely not going to fit between the coils on the compressed spring. I am frustrated. I could probably force them in, but it would wreck the powdercoating and I'm not sure I'd be able to get them back out, so that's not an option. I'm also concerned that they won't fit between the shock body and the coil ID.

These are Toytec boss coilovers, for reference.

 

[Jetboy]

I need to swap springs on my front coilovers, so I ordered this spring compressor:

Amazon.com: Coil Spring Compressor Tool, Orion Motor Tech Macpherson Strut Spring Compressor,13/16in Socket 1/2in Drive: Automotive

The hooks don't fit between the coils on the unloaded spring, so they are definitely not going to fit between the coils on the compressed spring. I am frustrated. I could probably force them in, but it would wreck the powdercoating and I'm not sure I'd be able to get them back out, so that's not an option. I'm also concerned that they won't fit between the shock body and the coil ID.

These are Toytec boss coilovers, for reference.

I have the same set. They will not fit on my fox 2.5 coilovers. They fit between the coils, but will not fit between the springs and the shock body. Don't force it - get a different spring compressor tool.

 

[BackOff]

Can use your 4runner as a coil compressor.

"No spring compressor method"

Been a number of members that have used it with good success.
Its really not scary.

 

[rexassian]

OTC makes a really good wall mounted one but I can't seem to find it from a reputable seller. There is also this style which looks easy enough to fabricate if you don't want to buy it:

Autozone strut compresser

Here's another alternative from OTC:

OTC compresser

 

[phattyduck]

You can get a bit more room to get the spring compressor fingers in/out if you full unscrew the compressor bolt from the "fingers". You can then 'rotate' them in and out between the coils. That doesn't help with the 2.5" body coilovers, but works for all the other options.

-Charlie

 

[gamefreakgc]

Can use your 4runner as a coil compressor.

"No spring compressor method"

Been a number of members that have used it with good success.
Its really not scary.

Can it be done with taller springs though? I had to fight it to get my stock sized coils in doing it that way, can't imagine what that would be like to clear another 2 inches.

OP, try the tool rentals at your local Oreilly's or Autozone. It's free as long as you actually return the tool.

 

[NJ-4Runner]

I need to swap springs on my front coilovers, so I ordered this spring compressor:

Amazon.com: Coil Spring Compressor Tool, Orion Motor Tech Macpherson Strut Spring Compressor,13/16in Socket 1/2in Drive: Automotive

The hooks don't fit between the coils on the unloaded spring, so they are definitely not going to fit between the coils on the compressed spring. I am frustrated. I could probably force them in, but it would wreck the powdercoating and I'm not sure I'd be able to get them back out, so that's not an option. I'm also concerned that they won't fit between the shock body and the coil ID.

These are Toytec boss coilovers, for reference.

I just went through this and was completely bummed out when I could not finish the install by myself. I ended up having to take the components to a shop to have them put it together.

Can use your 4runner as a coil compressor.

"No spring compressor method"

Been a number of members that have used it with good success.
Its really not scary.

I believe this method really only works with stock length struts and springs. I attempted to do this with the 5100 Bilsteins I just installed and I gave up because it appeared that there was no way I was going to be able to drop down the lower arm enough. I have the lower ball joint dis-connected but still had the steering tie-rod attached. Maybe if I disconnected the tie-rod it may have worked but the lower arm would have been almost vertical because I would have had to drop it down so far. Have done this method yourself?

Can it be done with taller springs though? I had to fight it to get my stock sized coils in doing it that way, can't imagine what that would be like to clear another 2 inches.

Exactly....

 

[BackOff]

Didnt think of that.
Might not be enough room with longer coils.
Dont think it will work with an adjustable coil either... threaded shock body style.

I have used this method on my 4th gen with a set of Moog fj coils because i could not get the tool out after assembly.

 

[LittleCaesar]

Find a shop with one of these in their hanger to switch them out for you, anything else IMHO just involves too much risk, having known someone where the el cheapos came apart and crushed his left pinky for life:

Model 7600 Professional Strut Spring Compression Tool - Branick

 

[Nickname]

Can it be done with taller springs though? I had to fight it to get my stock sized coils in doing it that way, can't imagine what that would be like to clear another 2 inches.

OP, try the tool rentals at your local Oreilly's or Autozone. It's free as long as you actually return the tool.

I just installed my struts using the no spring compressor method last night. Link below for a good write up.
OME Install - no spring compressor - Toyota 120 Platforms Forum

I have used this method several times and it has always worked. I used it with Bilstien 5100s with the stock spring set at 2.5" and with a 1.5" spacer and the shock set at 1.75". The second combo was difficult, but still doable without a spring compressor. Given that it netted ~3" of lift I think a 2" lift spring would be doable using this method.

Some important tips:
1. Remove the sway bar. This is super easy and you will save a ton of hassle later on.
2. Make sure you jack your vehicle up as high as possible so that you have plenty of room to push your lower control arm down with the pry bar.
3. Put a jack stand at the opposite corner of the vehicle. This will take some "flex" out of the vehicle and make it easier to pry down.
4. Have a buddy help you. A second set of hands makes this job super quick.

Hope that helps!

Edit: I did not even loosen the CAM bolts. Just undid the two lower ball joint bolts.

 

[NJ-4Runner]

I just installed my struts using the no spring compressor method last night. Link below for a good write up.
OME Install - no spring compressor - Toyota 120 Platforms Forum

I have used this method several times and it has always worked. I used it with Bilstien 5100s with the stock spring set at 2.5" and with a 1.5" spacer and the shock set at 1.75". The second combo was difficult, but still doable without a spring compressor. Given that it netted ~3" of lift I think a 2" lift spring would be doable using this method.

Some important tips:
1. Remove the sway bar. This is super easy and you will save a ton of hassle later on.
2. Make sure you jack your vehicle up as high as possible so that you have plenty of room to push your lower control arm down with the pry bar.
3. Put a jack stand at the opposite corner of the vehicle. This will take some "flex" out of the vehicle and make it easier to pry down.
4. Have a buddy help you. A second set of hands makes this job super quick.

Hope that helps!

Edit: I did not even loosen the CAM bolts. Just undid the two lower ball joint bolts.

Was this on a 3rd generation 4Runner? Your signature states that you have a 2006. It may work on the 2006 but not a 1996-2002 4runner.

 

[Nickname]

Was this on a 3rd generation 4Runner? Your signature states that you have a 2006. It may work on the 2006 but not a 1996-2002 4runner.

Yes, sorry. However, I believe the same would apply to a 3rd gen except you would undo the lbj instead of the two bolts near the lbj that the 4th gen has. My buddy has a 3rd gen and used the no spring compressor method. Idk if he had a 2" lift, but I know he has a lift. I haven't been under a 3rd gen in a bit to remember the front suspension setup.

 

[spartacus]

The one they loan at the auto parts store.

 

[96RedRunner]

I need to swap springs on my front coilovers, so I ordered this spring compressor:....

Cancel that order.!! Use the vehicle and floor jack.
I hate spring compressors and paying. Did this on 96Red and new 01
Did my Tundra 5100's 3 times, just installed 6112's twice playing with lift, position 3 & 4.
Figured it out in 2012. Have knuckle and CVA out of way, LCA swinging free,
top hat hung in place, put strut in place bottom bolt in place, compress strut with jack, top stem bushing washer nut torque it.
6112's settle in may need to play around, 1k mi on them now might be a while.

 

[yotamonkey]

I need to swap springs on my front coilovers, so I ordered this spring compressor:

Amazon.com: Coil Spring Compressor Tool, Orion Motor Tech Macpherson Strut Spring Compressor,13/16in Socket 1/2in Drive: Automotive

The hooks don't fit between the coils on the unloaded spring, so they are definitely not going to fit between the coils on the compressed spring. I am frustrated. I could probably force them in, but it would wreck the powdercoating and I'm not sure I'd be able to get them back out, so that's not an option. I'm also concerned that they won't fit between the shock body and the coil ID.

These are Toytec boss coilovers, for reference.

They work just fine. I compressed my OME coils down with no issues. The only thing you have to do is completely unscrew the rod out of the hooks and slide them out separately when you've got the springs on the strut.

 

[3bears]

Amazon.com: Coil Spring Compressor Tool, Orion Motor Tech Macpherson Strut Spring Compressor,13/16in Socket 1/2in Drive: Automotive

I have used this type for years...and I am pretty sure I will never again. Every time I was afraid...some times big time and just prayed...dont come loose....ive done all different styles of using them...on all kinds of cars....even mounting to a work bench. Even using 3 at a time instead of the two you normally get. work them down slowly and equally and the same with removal. To me they are high risk. But im older now and not so risky in stupid things I do.
I still have 2 sets in my garage.
with 2 sets in garage and tons of tools, i just had my tundra springs and billies assembled at a shop....just not worth it to me anymore...
wanted to try the method of jacking up your lower a arm.....just did not. I bet that works good and is safe...spring cant come flying at you with amazing force.

but..if you want to use those hook things...made now in china....go for it...just be real darn careful...save the beers till after your done
thats my 2 cents of info

 

[3bears]

Cancel that order.!! Use the vehicle and floor jack.
I hate spring compressors and paying. Did this on 96Red and new 01
Did my Tundra 5100's 3 times, just installed 6112's twice playing with lift, position 3 & 4.
Figured it out in 2012. Have knuckle and CVA out of way, LCA swinging free,
top hat hung in place, put strut in place bottom bolt in place, compress strut with jack, top stem bushing washer nut torque it.
6112's settle in may need to play around, 1k mi on them now might be a while.

I do NOT doubt this method at all, and was tempted to try, and have heard others on this forum say they use this method. but for me I would like to see pictures or a video doing this on a 3rd gen 4runner....not 4th gen ...but thats just me

 

[NJ-4Runner]

Yes, sorry. However, I believe the same would apply to a 3rd gen except you would undo the lbj instead of the two bolts near the lbj that the 4th gen has. My buddy has a 3rd gen and used the no spring compressor method. Idk if he had a 2" lift, but I know he has a lift. I haven't been under a 3rd gen in a bit to remember the front suspension setup.

I do NOT doubt this method at all, and was tempted to try, and have heard others on this forum say they use this method. but for me I would like to see pictures or a video doing this on a 3rd gen 4runner....not 4th gen ...but thats just me

I would also like to see a video of someone doing this on a 3rd gen. In order for this to work on a 3rd gen that lower control arm would have to be swinging free, anything taller than a stock strut/spring setup would require that lower control arm to come WAY down.

 

[thezentree]

I have Boss coilovers, which are externally threaded adjustable coilovers - there's no top hat and nut to remove, and from what I can tell, the spring has to be preloaded in order to remove or install the collars. I can't use the weight of the vehicle to disassemble these, although I can see it being possible with OEM style shock assy. In full disclosure, I haven't cranked the collars down to the very bottom of the shock to see if the compressor hooks will fit between the coils and between the spring and the shock, but I will be surprised if they do, especially with any preload on the spring.

I guess I'll give it a go when I get time to take it apart, but plan B will be a shop with a spring compressor.

For posterity, I'll add that I used to work for a company that built these shock assemblies for OEMs. I've seen them come apart when they weren't supposed to due to defective threads on the shock shaft, improper assembly, etc., and it's violent to say the least. Whatever method you use, be careful.

 

[96RedRunner]

I do NOT doubt I would like to see pictures or a video doing this on a 3rd gen 4runner....

With all you've done and figured out already this a piece of cake.
All I did was look at it, walk it through in my head, go for it.
Method worked having jack coming at it from front of truck, from side jack wanted to roll out when you loaded up spring tension.
The stem is started into top hat when spring starts loading up, bottom bolt in place, the assembly is captured by lower mount and top hat where it gona go, no where.
You control speed of things loading up with jack, check alignment of things as you load up spring. I left top hat nuts hand tight till things were in place torqued em all same time.
Go old school, rely on the gray matter between your ears, started wrenching before the Net was invented, way I look at it.