Replacing front struts...Do I need a spring compressor?

[detroiter]

Well I decided since my mechanic keeps giving me the run around, I'm tired of waiting on him to do my front struts. I'll just do it myself. I was wondering since I already have teins on the tokicos that are coming OFF of the car, do I need a spring compressor to use or are the teins short enough that one isn't needed? Anything I should be careful of? I've taken the shocks/struts off of my car before but I never actually changed the springs off of the struts, I've always had a shop do it.

Basically, I'm tired of my wallet getting raped and it's time to put an end to it and do it myself.

[WeeYari]

Teins are short enough that the job 'can' be done without a compressor. A second set of hands with you will help a great deal.

[detroiter]

Thanks! I really need some car friends, I'm tired of always having to wrench by myself lol

[fnkngrv]

yup...second set of hands reduces risks and frustrations!

[suckerface]

FYI (if you aren't already aware), you can get a spring compressor for "free" at most auto parts stores, just a $50 deposit you get back when you return them.

[detroiter]

im setting off out into the driveway to start the journey...wish me luck!

[suckerface]

Good luck! Hop in MI chat if you want any immediate answers too!

[sex]

Why are you replacing the tokicos? Worn out or going with something else?

[WeeYari]

I've taken the shocks/struts off of my car before

Since this is the hardest part, and you've done it before, this job will be a piece of cake.

[b20vteg]

really, the hardest part if the top 2 nuts on top... those things are a bitch!

[detroiter]

Ended up just taking it into a local shop. The bolts on the thing were far beyond any hand wrench tools. Ended up finding a busted lug too from the tire shop that put my tires on recently. I can't complain though...the shop charged me $100 out the door to do the front struts and replace the broken lug.

I replaced the suspension all the way around because the ride was awful. The tokicos had nearly 100,000 miles on them. And for Michigan roads, that really says something.

[b20vteg]

so how does it ride on stock struts? not bad, right?

[suckerface]

$100 isn't bad, I would have it done for that price just to save me the time and the drive to my buddy's house for tools and help (plus the cost of beer).