OK, first time posting up. I have a 68 rs and have just a couple of questions. I have powdercoated the subframe and have begun to install the control arms and springs. I have the frame "off" the car right now. I do not have a coil spring compressor from the center of the spring, but one from the outside, commonly used for MacPherson struts. I have compressed the srpings the "old fashoned" way before...by jacking up the lower arm, so I can install the knuckle. So, which way would any of you recommend? I have thought about dropping the motor/ trans in for weight to use a jack, and have also looked for a center spring compressor....

Any sugestions???

btw....love the information from this forum:) has helped progress my ride nicely!!

I think one of the guy's has used a piece of strong chain around his floor jack and also wrapped around the S/F to do this when the motor was out of the car..

Do a search...

pdq67

If the front end, or the engine is out of the car there isn't enough weight on the front end to compress the spring using the lower control arm, as there isn't enough leverage using the lower control arm. All that will happen is you will lift the front of the car up. There is not enough room between the spring and the spring pocket to use a compressor that attaches outside the spring, you really need one that runs up the center of the spring.

gramps68,

do a search for the word "sproing". that thread describes in detail how to install springs with no weight on the front end.

you will need a thru the center spring compressor.

Thanks guys...pdq67 there was a link on one of the previous threads...good thread. Thanks for the help...and as I get used to this forum, I will link up some pics of the ride.

graemlins/clonk.gif run269 read sproing...printed it too keep you posted.

hmmm.... I used a compressor that goes outside the spring... was a bit tight, but it owrked.

Good Going Jim!!

pdq67

Just got home from work and rented a compressor from Autozone...worked slick!! Whats nice about the rental, it wont cost a dime when I am done. The local Autozone allows you to charge the rental and will refund it when you return the tool. Slick setup if you need any specialty tools and dont want to spend the bucks for them.

Only had enough time to get one side done though...slid in nice and easy.