Using Spring Compressor for Control Arm Removal
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 316
Likes: 1
From: Southern California
Using Spring Compressor for Control Arm Removal
Good morning fellows,
Looking for some insight on using a spring compressor to assist with control arm removal. This is for a 73 small block.
I don't seem to be able to get the block on the compressor tool up through the bottom hole of the lower arm. If I turn one of the tool arms downward, I can't angle it back into upright position once the block is through the hole.
I've seen a few videos on a 68 and a 70, but wondering if they are different than my 73 as far as th opening in the lower arm.
Anyone know the solution?
Le Mans Master
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 6,422
Likes: 591
From: McHenry Illinois
I always use a long piece of 5/8" all thread, not a spring compressor. I remove the shock, put the all thread up through the hole with a big washer and nut under the lower control arm and above the top shock mount hole. Compress the spring slightly and then remove the ball joints and if you want, the lower control arm shaft bolts. Loosen the nuts till the spring pressure is gone.
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 316
Likes: 1
From: Southern California
75, thanks for the tip.
Your suggestion inspired me to separate the tool's arms from the rod. The trick was to push the arms up vertically all the way and that allowed enough wiggle room to rotate the shorter arm 180 degree. Then theaded the rod back in.
One side down, now to see if that technique was just luck!
