No spring compressor method - 3rd Gen 4R

I used the "no spring compressor needed" method of taking apart the front shock assemblies on my 2019 4R, usIng the lower control arm and a floor jack. Has anyone used this method on a 3rd gen 4R?

 

Well first, we don't use struts.

Two, are you trying to take apart your coilover while the assembly is still in the vehicle? Why?

I'm sure it's possible, as raising the entire assembly by the lower control arm will compress said coilover.

 

When I put Eibachs on my 4R during the pandemic lockdown, the shops around here were out 3-4 weeks on scheduling. I got everything in that I ordered, and was sitting at home, so I decided to do it myself. I don't have a decent spring compressor, so I did some reading up on the process some were using to disassemble the front shock & spring by putting a floor jack under the LCA, unbolting the LCA from the hub, loosening the cam bolts, and lowering the LCA with the floor jack after removing the top nut. The process worked perfectly on my 4R, with a little side issue from the KDSS sway bar, but I got it done without a spring compressor. It actually was quite simple. I just hadn't heard of anyone doing this on a 1st gen Tacoma/3rd gen 4Runner, and was curious. It's simply to avoid having to remove the shock, while using the floor jack to do the loosening/tightening of the coil spring instead of a spring compressor.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5E6u7dC7EHg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jo0FJSi-KYs

 

I missed the opportunity to try this out when I replaced my lower control arm bushings...it would have been the perfect time with the LCAs & tie rods disconnected...rats. It never occurred to me then.