coilover install

[gheron]

hey guys im working on putting my new coils in and im trying to take out the stock ones i got every bolt out and i tried spreading the mount but the fucking strut will not come out of the bottom assembly any help would be appreciated i have been trying with no success for the last 2 hours

TIA
Jonathan

[stefan]

Re: coilover install

hmm. i stuck in the spreader tool and beat the strut with a mallet a few times and it was loose right away. Is it the front right? thats usually the hardest because the spring has to be compressed so far.... I had to rig up the partsource spring compressor to get it to compress enough without hitting the underside of the wheel well.

[gheron]

Re: coilover install

its the left side im gonna go buy the spreader tool and see if that helps but i used the 1/4" screw driver in an extension and it was no good unless the thing is just to siezed up its stuck

[VW337]

Re: coilover install

Hey Jonathan, try using some penetrating spray then spreading with a 1/4 ratchet extension and hitting with a mallet. This is what I used and it came out pretty easy. Send me a text if your still having trouble 403-818-1502.

[gheron]

Re: coilover install

wow!! i dont know if im gonna get it done tonight and i need the car tomorrow!!! haha, i cant get the right side off now and i still need to do the rears FML!!!!!

[Tiki]

Re: coilover install

use your foot lol step on it while you pry with the extension

[stefan]

Re: coilover install

right front side took me the longest (hours...). rear axel took like 45mins for both sides, so I hope the rear goes well for you too!!

[gheron]

Re: coilover install

install day 2 tomorrow i guess haha!!! any one have a spring compressor i can borrow tomorrow morning?

[Stonewall]

Re: coilover install

I have spring compressors and both the spreader and top nut if you need them.

[nismodrifter]

Re: coilover install

Canadian Tire for spring compressors. Rental is free and its for 72 hours, very good if you are going to be busy and may not have time to return it ASAP. Auto-Value also has free rental but theirs is only for 24 hours.

[turbomeyers]

Re: coilover install

I am assuming its a mk4 .. i find it easiest to remove the three bolts that secure the ball joint to the a arm . and the axle nut as well so the whole assemble can swing out and away since its usually the axle that wont allow the knuckle to come down far enough to release the strut .