Spring Compressor - Need Recommendation

I am planning on changing the OEM shocks on my 2021 OR to Bilstein 5100's in the next few days - have the 5100's in my garage. I don't have a set of spring compressors for the job and have never used them before but am not afraid of taking on the task.. I would like some recommendations for a good brand to either purchase or rent for the job hoping to avoid a cheap set that might be more dangerous to use.

Can anyone recommend a good set to use?

Thanks - Bob

 

I used this method to install my Eibach front struts:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vkVLBOnAifc

I've seen some good reviews of this type:

 

I have one like this and it’s worked great so far:

https://www.spcalignment.com/component/spc/?task=part_description&pid=40260

 

Thanks for the recommendations.

the Specialty Products unit looks really easy and safe to use. Like that it compresses easily with hand tools. I ordered one from CarID a few minutes ago…

-Bob

 

No worries! it’s way better than the Autozone rentals. You’ll love it.

 

I would never trust any auto store spring compressor - look into the method above. Super easy and much safer in my opinion. Or maybe bring them to a shop and have them do it for you.

 

I had absolutely no problem with th McPherson spring tool from auto zone...and it was free. Both times I used it the one I got was brand new

 

you can rent a tool or just buy one for ~ $50. I got this from Amazon. I got it because it clears 2.5” body shocks with threads. I used it to compress and remove the springs in my Kings Coilovers.

Shankly Spring Compressor Tool (2 Pieces) - Heavy Duty Build, Ultra Rugged Coil Spring Compressor, Strong and Durable Spring Compressor with Safety Guard and Carrying Case

$55 Shankly Spring Compressor Tool - 2200 Lbs - Extra Strength, Heavy Duty Build, Ultra-Rugged Coil Spring Compressor Tool or Strut Spring Compressor Strong and Durable ATV Spring Compressor Tool

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071DQJG24/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_6EH8MC3FF4QN7EYXG8PF?_encoding=UTF8

 

Don't need them and can be done safer without.

 

After a few people have posted videos like the one above, I will never use a spring compressor again.

 

How many of you that would never use a spring compressor and the McGyver method are actual mechanics by trade? Not arguing, just curious

 

What's "MacGyver" about it? It's faster and safer.

 

Thanks for the link. Several online retailers sell them for $120 to $145 shipped. Still spendy but it looks like a quality product.

 

It's not any faster or safer, if anything extending the spring with the shock makes the assembly longer and you have to jack with it to remove it out, where the compressed assembly drops right out. There's a saying use the right tool for the job and that's exactly what a spring compressor is, not some make shift MacGyvering you would do on the trail or if you couldn't afford a free tool

 

the no compressor works well on standard struts. I’ve used this option on many cars.

But will not work with kings, icons or any 2.5” strut body as there is no removable top hat.

 

Oh, you convinced me. I will go back to placing the springs under tension to remove them.

 

You mean springs that are captured under tension? Or what about the heavy duty springs that are 3 inches longer than the stock ones? Again, there's a proper tool for the job, it's generally free and not some Micky mouse MacGyver trailside hack but WTF do I know having worked on cars and airplanes for the better part of 33 years

 

I'll answer your question as I've used both. What is safer: using the weight of the vehicle and a hydraulic jack to relieve tension? Or using a chincy spring compressor that is one broken hook or one stripped thread away from launching the spring with all that stored energy right at your head?

Let's say your hydraulic jack fails and the jack arm goes down - what happens to the spring? It goes straight down and is still captured by the strut upper/lower mounting points. It isn't flying at your head. I don't think you've thought this through or don't understand the method in the video.

Have you ever actually removed a strut/spring using this method? Or are you just arguing because you really, really like the Mickey Mouse MacGyver spring compressors from Auto Zone?

 

Great job, Mods. Make sure you remove any discussion addressing the safety of the two spring swap methods. No wonder this site is suffering a rapid death...

 

Probably because as stated in the video, the Mickey Mouse MacGyver method is for entertainment purposes only in the event you're stranded and SOL without access to the proper tool to do the job

 

You still have no idea how this works, do you? LMAO.

 

You still have no idea what a clueless fucking moron you are so LMAO

 

Get back on the lithium?

 

See how fucking dumb you are snowball?

 

Prozac? Take it.

 

You seem to know enough about all the crazy meds. Maybe your doc should increase the dose

 

Dude, the psycho threatening PM's are over the top. You're ignored.

 

They're not threats, it's like I said I was letting you know what a fucking imbecile you are. Never once did I threaten you but nice try.

 

Group hug?

 

No compressor needed for front. Set frame on jack stands take wheels off. Floor jack under ball joint on lca. Pump up and remove strut top nut. Watch nut as u start to back it off to make sure ur floor jack is pumped up enough. Then slowly release floor jack and it will all come apart easily. And I used a ratchet strap on the back coils. Once you have don’t it a few times it’s the quickest easiest way. Just be careful