Although I have read several threads about the danger of removing the shock absorbers from the TL utilizing purchased or rented spring compressors, I am throwing out the links below for two spring compressors I have researched and would like comments by fellow TL'ers with any knowledge of these two spring compressors. I know it has been suggested to merely take the removed assemble to a shop and have them risk life and limb for some price to remove and replace the springs. Given my habit of keeping cars for a long time - current '99 TL has 233K - I would like to invest in a quality spring compressor that does not cost the $700 - $800 that shop quality compressors cost. Thoughts on compressors in links below, or compressors TL'ers have used on TL's with good results would be appreciated.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Heavy-Duty-2...-/380881772445

 

I like the looks of the ebay one, not so much on the amazon one. Be careful either way.

 

Not that it means it's safe, but here is a link to part 2 of a 3 part video a TL dude posted on YouTube showing his replacement of his front shocks/springs for a 2003 TL Type S. Right in the beginning of the link below, you see the Amazon tool I have a link for in my first post on this thread.

 

Ive rented them from autozone, and had no problems..... Just saying. I even took an impact gun, and unbolted the top hat and it shot out. Of course i made sure it was aimed away from me (do not attempt).... You should be fine renting one and taking your time, its not that hard.

 

the amazon one is the type I used back in the day- works fine, its meant to be used with an impact/air gun for quick easy compression of spring and parts swapping,
BUT extreme care must be exercised!!!!!!!!
I am not kidding about potential loss of life or limb, or worse your buddy or in-law is rushed to the ER with a severe impact injury to the chest. Have experienced failure of both types, spring gets crooked pressure, spring grip part fatigues,, and kablammo!

 

It's easy to rent or loan the compressor kit from your local auto parts store, to see if ya like the way the tool works. Always hate to buy something that isn't going to be used much.

That's why some folks remove their shock & spring assembies from the car and take them to a repair shop and have the shop safely remove & install the new shocks into the springs for a few bucks.

 

Just rent one from a auto parts store. Removing the springs shouldnt be dangerous 1 but if you are using your head. And never stand in front of it while removing it. I have a few different types of compressors, all of which i have purchased at the local autoparts stores and i have never had one come off.

1 more thing. Loosen the top nut on the shock one or 2 turns WHILE its on the car. LOOSEN, NOT REMOVE.. It will make things easier once the shock is off the car

 

This ^

 

same thing putting top nut on- tighten as able with spring compressed- but the shaft the nut is on will turn, let SOME pressure off the spring compressor so top plate feels steady, now tighten top nut to torque spec and remove compressor
Ck the top nut one more time after strut install (if reachable- rears hidden on our car)
An air gun really helps in this job!

hmm there is a nice dual bar spring unit in the garage--to the Black Market with it!!