The easy way, aka: "the blanket method"

some folks insist that spring compressors are a must for changing the springs on your car, or replacing struts etc. "it's dangerous without them"...false..."it is wise to be cautious, that's why i wrap it up first, but to be honest that's probably even overkill...don't believe me? see for yourself...

for the nay-sayers: yes it's this easy on the front strut assembly as well...and yes some vehicles require compressors for removal, but on a lancer, and many other lightweight, small engine cars, it is not required...

http://youtu.be/RpG9cYlr3hY

I always just put an impact on them and watch the shock shoot across my bench into the wall.

lol! classy...i actually learned this method from a long time DSMer...

Most struts do require spring compressors for safe disassembly. The Lancer doesn't need that because when removing the top nut and it has about one more thread to go, the spring is only very slightly compressed, and it barely 'pops' the top nut off - you could never get injured. I didn't believe that until I saw it myself. This goes for fronts and rears. This is verified when you go to put the springs back on - just push the spring down a bit by hand and start threading the top nut - can't do that with types that need a spring compressor.

postscript: a little cordless impact driver like Cranswick used is an awesome tool, makes car work go much faster, highly recommended to ask for as a Christmas or birthday gift in lieu of the $200 Hugo Boss shirt that the wife/girlfriend thinks goes so well with your jeans.