Changing bushings on front suspension??

57Pontiac · Addicted!

Changing bushings on front suspension??

65wagon · Poncho Master!

use a proper spring compressor, those things are a bomb waiting to take someone head off. with that disclaimer i take the shock out and put a large breaker bar inside to keep the spring from flying out release the jack slowly until all tension is off reverse to intall, uless f40springs are used then you and two big MPs to your fender to compress

Paulish · Guru

Canadian tire has FREE rental of a spring compresser tool. Threaded rod type tool.

Make sure you tie up the spring good so it doesnt go flying. Ive used this on my car several times.

norontcan · Canadian Poncho Superstar!

Deal at CTC is you pay for the spring compressor on your credit card when you pick it up and then they credit your card when you return it.
Most stores have many other front end tools also ( pickle fork, special sockets etc )
This can be a real handy arrangement for guys only doing 1 job in a blue moon.

davelacourse · Poncho Master!

This is what you want:

After removing the shock absorber, feed it up through the bottom of the lower A-arm and follow the instructions on compressing the spring.

Please, no home-made tools for a job like this, if you have ever shot a brake spring across the garage, just think of what a BIG spring can do if it lets loose.

Dave

57Pontiac · Addicted!

Thanks guys for the response.

Thank you Dave for the picture!

I was just about to ask for one, as the tool I had rented once at Can Tire would not fit and I had no idea what kind of tool I was looking for :)

I'll let you guys know how it went.

Steve

dualquadpete · Canadian Poncho Superstar!

I've done it a "few" times w/out the compressor, by supporting cars frame with axle stands & putting floor jack under lwr. A/arm,then disconnecting A/arm at frame end & lowering it down!!! SCARY, but it has worked!!!! Everytime I've phoned the "RENTAL" place to get one they say theirs was broken by the last user!!! SO you do what you "gotta" do, when theres no other alternative

SD 396 · Poncho Master!

I changed my front springs on the weekend and would not attempt it without the proper spring compressor tool. The one I used and have used several times in the past is the same as the one that Dave shows in the picture.