Installing front struts

[Meanie]

I plan to change out my lower ball joints this weekend and thought about my front struts which I also have to install, but I was planing to wait until warmer weather. I figured I could kill two birds with one stone and do both installations. But the current problem is I don't have a spring compressor which would make it a bear to install. Therefore, upon viewing the manual, it appears by removing the ball joint, it would drop the control arm and release tension on the strut. Then, once I unbolt the strut, I assume it would completely drop to the ground while the strut and spring would be free and clear to remove without worrying about compressing. Obviously, this would make for an easy installation as well.

Can anyone confirm this situation and let me know if this will work as I envision?

Thank you

[RS_OBD'oh_2]

please check your local parts store like PartSource. They'll loan out the tool. It's best not to f around with the springs. The spring from strut to upper mount is under load.

[johnmx3ze]

yeah its true a parts store can loan one... if you dont use a spring compressor it can be very dangerous... sure you can take the top plate off and the spring will pop off and might get hurt... but try to but it back together without a compressor, that wont be possible... so your better to check if you can rent/borrow one which will make it alot easier... good luck

john

[Meanie]

Ok, thanks for the advice. I have access to a spring compressor from work, I simply forgot to grab it at the end of the day today. I will just do the ball joints then do the struts next weekend when I get the compressor.

Thanks again.

[johnmx3ze]

Ok, thanks for the advice. I have access to a spring compressor from work, I simply forgot to grab it at the end of the day today. I will just do the ball joints then do the struts next weekend when I get the compressor.

Thanks again.

ok cool good luck...