A question for anyone who has done their own suspension work. Is it extremely difficult to remove springs and struts and change bushings?



I know air compressor and air tools would help but can it be done without the air?



I am going to start changing out a lot on my suspension since it is 16 years old and has never been touched. Still rides okay but I have noticed some lean in turns and also noticed some extreme wear in a lot of the bushings. i just didn't know if I could do this myself or should I get the parts and take them to a shop to have it done. The latter would be easier but cost a little more but it would probably be done quicker. I would like to try it though just don't want to **** anything up that could be fucked up easily.



Greg

 

You can do it without air, it will be a bit harder on the wrists, but it can be done. The only thing you will need that you prolly don't have is a coil spring compressor.

 

That was the only tool I could think of also. Do you need any kind of prying fork for the suspension?

 

It was pretty easy to replace the stock struts and springs. I took the old units out as one peice, left the springs attached to the struts. I didn't need the stock pillowball mounts since I replaced them with camber plates. The only other tool that is nice to have around is a good pry bar. Never leave home without it!

 

you probably can rent a spring compressor, cuz thats what I did. it was more of a big bolt with uclamps but it did its job well. i'd say 3-4 hours with all the tools for a complete removal / installation.....

 

Stupid question but is it 3-4 hours per spring or 3-4 hours for all four? Spring compressors are very inexpensive at Harbor Freight so I may just buy a set.



thanks for all your help.

 

for all

 

I did a four of mine in just over an hour.

 

i replaced mine with racing beat springs and kyb shocks, and it wasn't hard. it was my first major car work experience, and it went well. 3 hrs sounds about right for the time. you will need a deep drive 21 or 22 mm socket, and a pry bar to get the shock/spring assembly apart. once it comes off, it's not really a probem.



autozone and o'reilly will loan out a COIL spring compressor for free, all you have to put down is like a $50 deposit, which you get back when you bring the tool back.

 

Not hard at all on these cars and definitely good experience for you... don't forget to get an alignment when you're all done.