i started installing my springs today. i got the whole stock strut/springs assembly out. Im using a compressor on the stock springs to remove them. But now im stuck,i cant undo the top nut of the strut to remove the stock spring. everytime i try to loosen it the middle portion of the strut spins. How can i get the top nut off? w/out the middle portion spinning as i try to get it out,.......thanks

 

Your best bet is to use an aircompressor and gun. It will zip the assembly apart in now time.

 

yea thats what i thought, i dont even have one of those... is there anything i can do beside using an air compressor? I might just have to get a shop install em' for me if theres nothing i can do, how much do they usually charge?

 

.......

 

I honestly don't know the geometry down there, but if you have a way to hold what's spinning (vise, visegrips) and more leverage on the wrench (meaning longer handle, like a pipe) you might make more progress. I really don't know what you're up against... but good luck!

 

yea i thought about using a visegrip, but I really dont want to dent the middle part...

 

dont put a set of vice grips on the center rod if you scratch it up it could blow the strut out

 

If memory serves me correctly, isn't there usually a place to insert a hex key at the top of the strut to keep it from turning when you're removing the nut? Sheesh, it's been a while since I've actually worked on my own car. I think I've learned that it's cheaper in the long run to have someone who does this day-in-day-out to do the work. Plus, my temper is pretty short and I never seem to have the right tools when I need 'em.

 

The upper spring seat has a "D" cut that holds the damper shaft in place. Did you round this off somehow, or is the spring seat turning as well? I like to break the nut loose while the strut is still on the car using an offset box wrench or deep socket. Off the car I lay the strut on the floor and put an old socket extension through the mounting bracket holes and stand on that for leverage.

Dave

 

We used an impact gun to get mine off. It was a battery powered one, I think they are about $100.

 

The best way I know of, is to loosen the nut a few turns before removing the assembly. This is how I did it and never had an issue. Try putting the strut assembly back in the car. Attach the lower bolts, probably only need one and then loosen the nut.

 

bump for how much does this normally cost if done by a shop...I'm going to get an estimate on Thursday. I was thinking around 200 bucks or so; sound about right?

 

Not sure on the cost. Did it in the garage with a friend and took about 4 hours. Could probably do it in about 3 the next time.

 

update on this guys, I put a lil more effort yesterday and was able to borrow my dads tool. Took me almost the whole day since i did it all without my cousin who was suppose to show up, that bastard;but my car is finally lowered. I tried to borrow an impact gun but there wasnt enough time to call some ppl around and get it. I didnt mess with the center rod for safety,but i use a plumbing tool to hold the ring (where the bolt was sitting at}to stop it from turning to loosen the bolt. Man Im all sore and tired today, but when I see how much my exterior and ride quality change, at the end its all worth it.....

 

I would suggest, just try to have one of your friend who had done it before help you. You will save money. Unless you want to spend 100-150$. As long you have the proper tools your good to roll.....