Coil spring removal/install?
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 49
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Coil spring removal/install?
First want to let everyone know that this is for a '68 Camaro and not a Corvette. I've received a lot of help from this forum on my '92 Vette and seeing that the camaro forum members are all comatose I thought I would try here as a last resort. I'm restoring a '68 and as I'm rebuilding the front end, I'm trying to install a pair of new coil springs. I rented a tool at Autozone that has 2 hooks on top and a slotted plate for the bottom. It compressed the spring, got it installed with new spindle but now can't get the tools bottom plate out as the spacing between coils is tight. I'm planning on taking it all apart again but need advice on what tool works best or am I just doing it wrong. I don't want to do this again if you know what I mean. Unfortunately my 92 vette has the leaf spring up front so my manuals don't help.
Thanks in advance.
Thanks in advance.
Race Director
Joined: Dec 1999
Posts: 19,610
Likes: 778
From: Forked River NJ
Most of the aftermarket coil springs are shorter and don't need a compresser. You can position the coil in the upper mount and get it sort of installed in the lower arm and just jack up the lower arm. I/we did this on a 69 Camaro a couple of months ago and had no problem doing this. I have not used a compresser in about the last 6 spring jobs I have done. I had the ame thing happen to me it just got stuck in the spring. If you are careful it can be done safely.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 2,161
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From: pr, frederick md.
ive done so many i never use a compressor any more. only if its a strut mounted spring. if its a stock length spring use a long bar to pry it into the bottom pocket after you place in top pocket. and like gordonm stated, sorter aftermatrket springs gp right in.
Instructor
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 223
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From: South MS
I used the exact same (AZ) compressor to do my 69, and I know exactly what you mean. I was able to get the slotted part out with a rubber hammer and a lot of time.
Since then I have seen it done with the same tool, but a lot easier.
What you can do is to place the flat piece under the lower a-arm with the compressor bolt running through the shock mount hole, instead of putting it in the spring. You just have to make sure you have the springs turned right to go into the upper pocket before you start to compress them.
Since then I have seen it done with the same tool, but a lot easier.
What you can do is to place the flat piece under the lower a-arm with the compressor bolt running through the shock mount hole, instead of putting it in the spring. You just have to make sure you have the springs turned right to go into the upper pocket before you start to compress them.
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 49
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Thanks for the tips. I thought about putting the flat plate below the lower control arm but didn't think I would get enough compression. I should have gone with my first instinct. The spring is stock height and fairly long. Only problem now is to get it out.
