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What is the best way to install the front spring, I'm having a heck of a time getting it back in. Looked on YouTube nothing stood out as any good. Don't think a spring compressor will work.
I guess you never done one before because it's next to impossible to do it that way with a stiff Corvette spring. Undo the lower control arm shaft from the frame lower it with a floor jack. Getting one bolt caught is fairly easy going back up and the spring isn't preloaded yet so it's fairly safe. Once one bolt is caught Jack it up the rest of the way. I find this method to be safe, but if you worried about meeting God you can always put a threaded rod through where the shock goes for a extra layer of protection.
I just did a quick Google search and found several posts on this forum on how to do it. Using a spring compressor, whether store bought or homemade, is the most common method.
Whatever you do, ensure you have a well thought out plan and use safety cables/straps/chains to avoid injury.
I guess you never done one before because it's next to impossible to do it that way with a stiff Corvette spring. Undo the lower control arm shaft from the frame lower it with a floor jack. Getting one bolt caught is fairly easy going back up and the spring isn't preloaded yet so it's fairly safe. Once one bolt is caught Jack it up the rest of the way. I find this method to be safe, but if you worried about meeting God you can always put a threaded rod through where the shock goes for a extra layer of protection.
I had to do this in reverse to get the old springs out.
The new 550 springs were significantly shorter, and went in without any drama.
What is the best way to install the front spring, I'm having a heck of a time getting it back in. Looked on YouTube nothing stood out as any good. Don't think a spring compressor will work.
Originally Posted by Rebelyell
loosen one ball joint pop it free of spindle
Originally Posted by Fly skids up!
I guess you never done one before because it's next to impossible to do it that way with a stiff Corvette spring. Undo the lower control arm shaft from the frame lower it with a floor jack. Getting one bolt caught is fairly easy going back up and the spring isn't preloaded yet so it's fairly safe. Once one bolt is caught Jack it up the rest of the way. I find this method to be safe, but if you worried about meeting God you can always put a threaded rod through where the shock goes for a extra layer of protection.
Your guess is wrong, sir. Car was 1971 C3 base coupe L48/ZQ3 w/ A/C, w/ OE springs both F&R. Car on jack stands, also floor jack. Of course, shocks were out. (Pickle fork IF BJ stuck in spindle).
Apparently sir, yours ain't the only way to skin this cat.
I used a 1/2" threaded rod and some large washers and nuts to compress the spring. Be mindful to properly index the spring in the top pocket of the frame. The spring end must be within 3/8" of the inspection hole in the frame rail. Also, check the forum archives on the C-2 and C-3 forums for instructions and photographs. There is a wealth of information already posted. Lastly, as Alan said be careful, there is a great amount of stored energy in the springs and if they get away from you, you could be visiting the ER. Jerry
I guess you never done one before because it's next to impossible to do it that way with a stiff Corvette spring. Undo the lower control arm shaft from the frame lower it with a floor jack. Getting one bolt caught is fairly easy going back up and the spring isn't preloaded yet so it's fairly safe. Once one bolt is caught Jack it up the rest of the way. I find this method to be safe, but if you worried about meeting God you can always put a threaded rod through where the shock goes for a extra layer of protection.
Thanks for the answer, I have now done the left side and did it that way, wasn't fun but got there. Now have to rebuild the right side.
If you're installing poly CA bushes, (but ONLY if poly) you don't have to remove Old outer shells; simply hog out old rubber w/ hole saw and a penknife. New energy suspension poly & inner shell/sleeve slides right into old (but clean) outer shell. But hey, pay no heed, cuz I must've never done this job, right.
I used a 1/2" threaded rod and some large washers and nuts to compress the spring. Be mindful to properly index the spring in the top pocket of the frame. The spring end must be within 3/8" of the inspection hole in the frame rail. Also, check the forum archives on the C-2 and C-3 forums for instructions and photographs. There is a wealth of information already posted. Lastly, as Alan said be careful, there is a great amount of stored energy in the springs and if they get away from you, you could be visiting the ER. Jerry
Exactly what I did.
With the lower and top arms loose, put the spring in the pocket. Then put a rod in the spring and thru the control arms, place a couple of thick large washers on top and at the bottom of the arms use two bolts on each end and start compressing the spring. When you can connect the spindles to the control arms fasten them and then you can slowly unscrew the nuts on the rod and releasing the tension on the spring.
I just installed tubular control arms and new springs.
i found a bunch of YouTube videos that were helpful.
I used a spring compressor drop down through the shock tower and the bottom clamp. I also used a ratchet strap attached to the spring and the opposite side to pull the spring into the lower arm pocket.
I had a jack under the arm to raise into position once the spring was in place
I just installed tubular control arms and new springs.
i found a bunch of YouTube videos that were helpful.
I used a spring compressor drop down through the shock tower and the bottom clamp. I also used a ratchet strap attached to the spring and the opposite side to pull the spring into the lower arm pocket.
I had a jack under the arm to raise into position once the spring was in place
Have now done the job and did it exactly that way, definitely the best way.
Front springs
