Professional vs at home lift install

Buy a set of ratcheting combination wrenches. I probably wasted an hour using a normal combination wrench on the top shock bolts.

 

It is a Bilstein TRD Pro strut assembly and I am trying to install the Toytec lower spring seat/perch and the extended top studs (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ztjp5hbcMEE&ab_channel=ToyTecLifts). I am trying to save both the strut and spring (both are in good shape).

The three top strut nuts (attaching strut to frame) are not the issue. I can remove the strut just fine but I can no longer remove the middle strut nut at the top of the stem. The small "nub" that is used to stop the stem from spinning is now sheared off (see photo from my previous post).

 

https://youtu.be/5E6u7dC7EHg

Vid shows how to disassemble the coil overs without a spring compressor. If the shock turns you can do what shop suggested and "clamp the rod" use vise grips and a cut section of hose to prevent damage to the finish. Not sure how much thread is exposed, maybe you can find or make thin wall nuts to "double nut" and prevent it from turning.

 

My post was a suggestion for the OP.

 

Thanks for the feedback!
I am not too worried about compressing the spring; I plan to rent a different style of spring compressors that don't require clamping around the back of the coil. I figured an "experienced" shop would be able to properly disassemble the strut but that is not the case.
I was worried about damaging the smooth shaft but if rubber is an adequate buffer, then that seems to be the only way. Post 29 shows a photo of how many threads are left. No room for the double nut method.

 

I just used the harbor freight spring compressor. I was only doing 2" lift so didn't need to compress all that much.

 

Every time I try to work on my own stuff underneath I end up running into something that leaves me scratching my head and frustrated haha. Took my lift guy 2 hours to do front strut top mount spacer, diff drop, and rear coil spring spacers. So don’t be paying for 9 hours labor for something like what you got.

 

@PJSnow to answer your question, you won't need the nub with an impact, it will pull it off.

As always, that spring compressors are somewhat sketchy so always consider the stored energy you're building up and be safe.

Personally, Bilstein 5100's are pretty cheap so if you botch the strut too badly, it's a nice plan B.

 

Thank you for confirming the impact method! I will give it a try (hopefully) this weekend.

Bilstein 5100's are a good plan B but if it comes to that, I may just want to jump for 6112's. I feel the 5100's are a step down from the TRD Pro suspension. Let's hope it doesn't lead to that but I will cross that bridge when/if it comes.

 

Understood. The TRD Pro Bilsteins aren't much of an upgrade over 5100's but I do think they might be better.

Either way, and this sounds somewhat apathetic but I don't mean it that way:
If you break it, it's just money, and learning. In the end the education is probably worth more than the money lost. In the short term, doh!

 

Installing your own lift kit is a great way to save money and get your hands dirty. Just make sure to take it slow and be extra careful when handling delicate areas.
From what I've seen on YouTube, there are a few areas you want to be mindful of, like the brake lines and smooth shaft. But if you have a rubber buffer in place, you should be good to go. Just remember to double-check everything before you start driving around on your new lift.
As for tips and tricks, check out hinchong.com. They've got a ton of helpful posts and forums where you can connect with other lift enthusiasts.