So there I was...installing coilovers today. I got the rear done with no help, I get the front driver side front shock done no prob. I get to the passenger side and of course, problem occurs for which I do not have the tool. (I'm HOPING a spring compressor will resolve this).

I loosen the lower strut bold, remove the a-arm bolts, take off the brake line, take off the ABS line, loosen the top strut bolts and let down the jack, all the pressure lets off and the stock strut decompresses and jams behind the rotor.

I am thinking, and hoping I can get a spring compressor to compress the stock shock to a point where I can slide it up, over and then down to get it out.

IF this is the case, what is a good spring compressor to use?

If this is not the fix, I need some suggestions please. The thing is totally jamed in there, I will post a pic soon.

Any suggestions?

 

This is what I'm looking at.

 

I don't remember mine being that tight. Have you tried just pushing down on the suspension? I just did my springs and I did not have to do anything special.

John

 

Haven't tried pushing down very hard...everything just seems to be jammed, the strut is jammed in there solid, wont wiggle at all. I don't know what happen, the other front side was piece of cake.

 

Put a bar through the bottom hole of the shock, and use a jack to compress the shock.

 

I had the exact problem when I did mine on the same side. Problem is a result of your sway bar being connected still. I had my "tough guy" friend just push down on the control arm really hard and I pulled out the shock with ease. Or use a large bar to kinda pry it down a bit.

 

Use a pry bar ... the longer the better .

Joaquin

 

ok thanks guys...will give it a go tomorrow.

 

Have you have one of your friend stand on the top of the brake rotor? Should compress it down enough for you to slide your suspension over and out.

 

Just make sure you have the car supported well.