only way to work is use the tools designed for the job.
Front Suspension Tool recommendations
Thread Starter
Advanced
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 65
Likes: 5
From: Austin Texas
Front Suspension Tool recommendations
Hello,
Between pickle fork, air-hammer with pickle fork, and clamp/puller type ball-joint separator, which would you all recommend? I'm removing my suspension to install a VBandP performance plus kit (Yessss!).
Also, should I chain the coil to the A-arm to remove it, or use an internal type compressor? If the 'proper' compressor is used, how the heck do you uncompress it once its out (without loosening the bolt while leaning over it?!)
Thanks!
I'll post pics and overall impressions to add to the mix
Between pickle fork, air-hammer with pickle fork, and clamp/puller type ball-joint separator, which would you all recommend? I'm removing my suspension to install a VBandP performance plus kit (Yessss!).
Also, should I chain the coil to the A-arm to remove it, or use an internal type compressor? If the 'proper' compressor is used, how the heck do you uncompress it once its out (without loosening the bolt while leaning over it?!)
Thanks!
I'll post pics and overall impressions to add to the mix
Tech Contributor
Joined: Aug 1999
Posts: 14,380
Likes: 6,391
From: At my Bar drinking and wrenching in Lafayette Colorado
I use an air hammer with pickle fork, but a "manual" pickle fork works just fine.
I've never used a spring compressor or a chain - you can safely disassemble the front end without any special tools. Drop me an e-mail for my front end paper for specific instructions:
V8FastCars@msn.com
Lars
I've never used a spring compressor or a chain - you can safely disassemble the front end without any special tools. Drop me an e-mail for my front end paper for specific instructions:
V8FastCars@msn.com
Lars
Race Director
Joined: Nov 1999
Posts: 10,643
Likes: 8
From: Foxfield CO 1970 Convertible
I agree w/Lars. You can borrow a manual pickle fork from an auto parts store. Using one of these, mine came apart pretty easily. The springs can be removed pretty easily using a jack and some caution. I'm sure Lar's email will cover it.
Team Owner
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 23,831
Likes: 10
From: Springfield MO
St. Jude Donor '07
I really like the H-shape ball joint remover over any sort of pickle fork. You can get one from JC Whitney - the top of one arm of the "H" has a fork in it, there is a pivot on the crosspiece, and a bolt at the opposite end. Ball joints that I've banged on with a fork for hours have popped loose in a few minutes with that tool.
My other favorite is a coil spring compressor with a shortened screw - the full-length screw runs into the frame at any respectable level of compression, at least on my tool.
My other favorite is a coil spring compressor with a shortened screw - the full-length screw runs into the frame at any respectable level of compression, at least on my tool.
Race Director
Joined: Feb 1999
Posts: 16,978
Likes: 7
From: In Dreams There Is Truth Ohio
Thread Starter
Advanced
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 65
Likes: 5
From: Austin Texas
What about aftermarket springs?
Thank you all for the quick replies. Lars, I should have mentioned that I read your suspension R&I article this weekend, and have an air hammer on the way.
My coil springs have been replaced; I don't know what the spring rate is. Is it still OK to leave out the spring compressor, or is there a spring rate which would require one? Also, should I chain it to the A-arm? Thanks again. I can't wait to get wrenchin'
My coil springs have been replaced; I don't know what the spring rate is. Is it still OK to leave out the spring compressor, or is there a spring rate which would require one? Also, should I chain it to the A-arm? Thanks again. I can't wait to get wrenchin'
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Le Mans Master
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 8,339
Likes: 24
From: I can walk to MA
Add propane torch to the list above.
Never used a spring compressor once .. and rebuilt plenty of C3 front ends.
I must admit .. installing the stock coils witha floor jack can be a task.
Coming out will be easy, but if fearful ... doesn't hurt to wrap a chain around it (first time, anyway).
The longest spring is the stock springs. Any aftermarket springs will be
shorter and even easier to get out/in with a floor jack.
Never used a spring compressor once .. and rebuilt plenty of C3 front ends.
I must admit .. installing the stock coils witha floor jack can be a task.
Coming out will be easy, but if fearful ... doesn't hurt to wrap a chain around it (first time, anyway).
The longest spring is the stock springs. Any aftermarket springs will be
shorter and even easier to get out/in with a floor jack.
Safety Car
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 3,697
Likes: 833
From: WI
I've always put a chain on the springs I take out. Never had one let loose, but not worth the risk in my opinion. Lot of stored energy there, even with lightly compressed springs. I also agree with the JC Whitney hinged ball joint tool. I've also hammered away and goofed up the threads on B-joints/tie rod ends but no more. The hinged tool pops them loose with little effort. Good luck with the rebuild!
Mark G
Mark G
Melting Slicks
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 2,669
Likes: 3
From: Kingston Ontario
Pickle fork is great if you do not intend to re-use ball joints. 
Puller (the correct size), is easy to use and will not damage ball joints.
If body-off, I remove shock and insert threaded rod and two large steel plates to act as a coil spring compresser. Always release tension with hand tools, no air tools. Typical coil spring is compressed about four inches max.
If body is still on the frame you can use the vehicle weight to remove/install coil springs.
Safety chain is great as long as it isn't too short or binds up!!
Puller (the correct size), is easy to use and will not damage ball joints.
If body-off, I remove shock and insert threaded rod and two large steel plates to act as a coil spring compresser. Always release tension with hand tools, no air tools. Typical coil spring is compressed about four inches max.
If body is still on the frame you can use the vehicle weight to remove/install coil springs.
Safety chain is great as long as it isn't too short or binds up!!