front spring replacement?

[84regalltd]

I'm thinking that a spring compressor would be the best way to remove/replace the front springs in my buick. Pretty much don't wanna tear apart my front end. Currently has the stock v6 springs, replacing with f41 springs and kyb gr2 shocks.
So what are you guys using?

 

[Bonnewagon]

Use a GOOD brand, not Harbor Freight, I had one break and it scared the piss out of me. I also like to run the shaft up and out the shock hole at the top. That way only the next to bottom coil is engaged and the whole spring is pulled up into the spring tower while I tighten the tool from above,out of harms way. When the lower control arm is clear, then I lower the spring. I also use a safety chain to tie the spring to the frame. Be very, very carefull with springs.

 

[84regalltd]

Yeah it makes me nervous.

 

[joe_padavano]

I'm thinking that a spring compressor would be the best way to remove/replace the front springs in my buick. Pretty much don't wanna tear apart my front end. Currently has the stock v6 springs, replacing with f41 springs and kyb gr2 shocks.
So what are you guys using?

I have a KD internal spring compressor that I've used for several decades. Note that you will need to separate one of the ball joints to get the spring out even with a compressor.

 

[Schober Motorsports]

Ok guys I need some help... How in the hell do you get that darn spring out. I'm changing out the springs to something that will lower it a bit and I can't figure out to save my life how to get this damn thing out! I disconnected the lower ball joint (Just the nut) and the front sway bar... Shouldn't the lower control arm just fall because of the shock?

Thanks...

 

[gpguy]

Use a floor jack under lower a arm. Seperate ball joint from spindle with ball joint fork. Be very carfull spring is compressed!

 

[Bonnewagon]

If you removed the nut and the control arm is not supported- PUT IT BACK ON!!!! Get a floor jack under that control arm and raise it slightly. NOW loosen the nut a few turns, not completely. Just a 1/8" to 1/4" gap is good. Two ways to seperate the joint. Pickle fork tool you wedge in there between the control arm and spindle and whack with a BFH but that ruins the grease seal. Other way is to lower the jack (WITH THE NUT STILL ON!!) and whack the spindle area adjacent to the ball joint stud with a BFH. Might take a few good shots.The blow will deform the spindle just enough to release the stud, and the nut keeps it from flying apart in either case. Third and best way is to use a ball joint tool but still keep the nut on. And keep the jack close by under there just in case it blows apart on you. After it's loose you can insert the spring tool into the spring and make sure ALL the fingers have a good purchase on the coils-THEY CAN SLIP OFF!!! The nut on the tool should be in the shock absorber hole, and the top set of fingers should be the threaded ones. When you are sure it's good to go you tighten the nut and compress the spring-SLOWLY!! No air tools. Keep out from under the control arm in case it comes apart on you. Once the spring is compressed and is loose on the control arm and there is no spring pressure at all on the arm, THEN you can remove the nut from the ball joint, and swing the arm out of the way , and remove the spring. Treat it like a hand grenade with no pin!! Immediatly unscrew the tool and relieve the spring pressure. Once the spring is out and safe, take a break and have a cold beer.