i was trying to install the spring myself for my gf's accord, but the nuts on the compress was so hard to twist....so does anyone know what is the correct to use it?? or any tip when using it??

thanks

 

The best tip is: USE THEM!!! crank them puppies down until you think they are compressed enough, and then give them 10 or 12 more turns. My buddy and I thought we had mine compressed enough, and we ended up shooting my top cap about 30 feet when the bolt came off.

Second best tip is: Get the kind that allows you to insert a 1/2 inch ratchet directly into the top of the bolt part. Mine are like that, and it made things a lot easier, since I didn't have to put a ratchet over the bolt and then crank it down.

 

Best tip I can give you is don't get killed...That can be a very dangerous job if you screw up

 

don't get lazy and only compress the spring a little bit and then have the top hat and the strut mount go flying off 15 feet putting a dent in a wall...

 

amen to all the good adive so far. Also, make sure that you put some WD 40 on the threads, that should help. Also, my compressors came w/u bolts that are meant to put around the compressor and the spring. That way, if the compressor ever wants to jump off of the spring, it won't go far. Most of all be very careful and don't rush, thereis an amazing amount of force in a compressed spring!

 

Most important - Compress evenly on both sides of the spring. Give 10 turns on one, then 10 turns on the other and so on....

 

All of the above is excellent advice. I would add that the job is much easier if you have access to an impact wrench (air drill). Set it on the lowest torque setting to slow it down.

 

I don't that you need an impact wrench, but definitely a ratchet...the way you describe "twisting" the bolt...I hope you weren't using an open wrench or your hands...

Also...buy two compressors and bring a buddy over...much easier to be compressing the new spring while you are removing the old spring...it will cut your install time in half! Literally!

 

thanks for everyone's advise, i will try it again this weekend!!

p.s is it possible to rent air tools??

thanks

 

Yes. Just remember not to stay to long on one nut keep swiching back and forth to stay even. It will save you time and give your arm a brake. If you have access to a compressor why not just by one from Home Depot and get an impact socket set.

 

Secure the compressor onto the spring very tightly, straight and parallel to the other compressor at the opposite side of the spring. Failure to do this and you will have a hell of a time trying to decompress. Let me know if it's clear enough or I'll send a pic with further explanation.

 

an impact wrench definitely isnt necessary but it will save you A LOT of time if you have access to one.