Ok guys...how long should it take me to install my springs? I'll be by myself, and I've never done this before. All I have are the DIY's that have been posted here on these boards...

 

I didn’t think that attempting a spring install was a very good first project for a DIY guy.
You need special tools including a spring compressor don’t you ???

Shawn S

 

Spring compressor is good to have. Given the proper tools and maybe someone who knows more to be thhere in case there is a problem, it shouldnt be a bad project to do.

 

i can rent a spring compressor from autozone or something...if it's something significantly harder than an icebox install, maybe i should get it done by somebody? i dunno...how hard can this install be?

 

the rear springs don't need a compressor, but the fronts do

 

You're going to want to set aside the whole day to do this, especially since you've never done it before. I've done several springs installs and even with the practice I would guess it takes on average 4-6 hours to do it. With air tools you could probably knock off at least half that time. Its not super technical, there was an AWESOME write up on here a couple weeks ago, someone installing some H&R's and Bilsteins I think. If you're not comfortable working on your car, I would suggest finding someone that could do it for you or someone that can help you with it. Good luck.

 

If you have 50k-60k miles on your car I'd do the struts/shocks at the same time. But that's just me.

 

prolly gonna take atleast 4-5 hrs

 

http://www.abunchofcars.com/diy_page...ng_install.htm

 

IMO, if you are asking this question you are better off having someone else do it. The installation is more difficult and significantly more dangerous than the Icebox install.

 

it's so much more enjoyable doing the mods myself...also, how would i ever learn if im always paying somebody else to do it for me? based on the all the writeups and DIYs, it doesnt look that challenging...or i'm just that naive. as far as danger goes...as long as im using a spring compressor (and doing so properly), how risky could this be?

 

Most rental spring compressors will not hold 100%.

I agree, learning first hand is the best way. But you might want to consider having someone experienced at least help. Also, the Icebox and suspension components are not at the same level. However, it is not difficult provided you have the right tools and knowledge.

I'm a bit presumptuous that if you are asking questions then you have doubts about your own capability and want reassurance. If you were confident then there would be no reason to ask and you could jump to it.

Just make sure you take it slow and are sure the spring is being retained. Also, make sure you torque all bolts accordingly as you don't want something to let loose while driving.

 

those compressors you can rent at autozone do not look like they are safe. dont poke your eye out if u do use one. There also a good faq on spring install over on the tl site that i used, it was very informational and precise

 

That one seemed to be ok...except for step 13.
Now this is the scary part. Remove the safety pin on the nut on the upper control arm's balljoint. Do not destroy the pin, you will be re-using it. loosen the nut, but don't remove it yet(to protect the threads of the stud). Now with a hammer (and a good grip), give the knuckle of the ball joint a good whack. If it doesn't drop on the first shot, give it a couple of shots until the balljoint drops.

I think i'd rather use the guide that either NiteQwill or Peiquinlong wrote...

 

Check my sig for the DIY I wrote up.

As for spring compressors, make sure to rent the strut spring compressor NOT the coil spring compressor. Also, make sure the compressor has LOCKS, just incase it wants to throw a tantrum.

I completed a shock/spring install in 2hours with a buddy. I highly recommend a friend to help you.

When changing out JUST SPRINGS pay attention to the step where I describe using CHALK to mark the alignment of stock shocks, or you'll be knocking yourself in the head over trying to align the front shocks properly.

Good luck.