[Steering & Suspension] Strut replacement- Spring Compression

[Houdini]

Decided today to replace both front struts and top mounts inc bearings as I see these end up a total mess, and yip mine were rusted and in bits. I worked on cars before and compressing the springs was straight forward but this time it took me forever to get the dam spring compressed when out property to re assemble.

Has anyone else had this issue I had 4 spring clamps on it at one point!  Also this idea of the spring needing clamped while its still fitted it awful. Thankfully had a down loaded manual for it (mk1 if anyone needs a copy let me know) that helped. think there must be another type of spring compressor req for this as it was to much so only did one side today.


[Image: 20161230_144259_zps0clpeoqb.jpg]

[Col]

I use one like this. Piece of cake!  



[Image: ST-65090__2.jpg]

[geoff]

The spring can be done with care using just two compressors, helps if you open then up fully and pick up on the spring as far apart as possible which helps keep it more stable.

I used to have one like yours Col but moving home last year meant a downsize and at my age I don't want to be doing springs anymore - now I get the boy to do it under the guise of his education in wallet preservation.

Also have a mobile / hand version for the rear horisontal springs a la C15 / Peugeot etc. Wanted to buy one until I saw the eye watering price so made one in work on a quiet night. Must be still in a box from moving home of which I still have a few unopened !

[ffrenchie]

Has anyone else had this issue I had 4 spring clamps on it at one point!  Also this idea of the spring needing clamped while its still fitted it awful. Thankfully had a down loaded manual for it (mk1 if anyone needs a copy let me know) that helped. think there must be another type of spring compressor req for this as it was to much so only did one side today.

When the spring broke I took mine off and round to the local garage where they compressed the spring with a foot operated one like the picture earlier. The springs are a lot longer than some so they do take a lot of compressing but once they are on and the top nut on the centre piston you can remove the compressors to refit the strut to the car.

[dumdum]

Your spring compressors are too short if I'm honest, grab the top and bottom free coils with two longer ones and compress and the spring will be loose and easy to do the job your thinking of

[dumdum]

Your spring compressors are too short if I'm honest, grab the top and bottom free coils with two longer ones and compress and the spring will be loose and easy to do the job your thinking of

[Houdini]

Managed to get a second hand  compressor as suggested, Il  give it a go might do a small video if it helps others.

[Image: 20170103_125405_zpszkuskkmj.jpg]

[Col]

Managed to get a second hand  compressor as suggested, Il  give it a go might do a small video if it helps others.

[Image: 20170103_125405_zpszkuskkmj.jpg]

Make sure you use the safety chain. Did you get both sets of forks?

[Houdini]

Hi,
Sadly only the ones attached. Im going to fit a stronger chain as well to be safe in case it slips.

[Col]

Hi,
Sadly only the ones attached. Im going to fit a stronger chain as well to be safe in case it slips.

Make sure the forks are the right size for your strut.