Coilover spring compressor

767Jockey · #1 (**permalink**) 05-10-2007, 08:31 PM

I have to disassemble my original Koni non adjustable coilovers to clean them up - they work fine but look like hell.. Have any of you bought a cheap spring compressor that will do the job? Where did you get it? I don't need an expensive professional tool - I only intend to do this once. Something inexpensive that works will be fine. Also, does anyone know if a MacPerson strut spring compressor works with coilovers? Thanks.

CHANMADD · #2 (**permalink**) 05-10-2007, 09:59 PM

Go to Kragen and rent one for free. Pay a deposit ,use them,take em back and get your deposit back!!!

767Jockey · #3 (**permalink**) 05-10-2007, 10:08 PM

I've never heard of Kragen - what is it?

lineslinger · #4 (**permalink**) 05-10-2007, 10:09 PM

I bought the inexpensive coil spring compressor from Northern Hydraulics and it worked well. Its slow and a little cumbersome but thats okay, it's not like I need it every day. You might be able to rent the tool.
Not sure about the McPherson question. There is a lot of pressure built up when you compress those springs, take your time.

Tinker51 · #5 (**permalink**) 05-10-2007, 10:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 767Jockey

I've never heard of Kragen - what is it?

In your neck of the woods it is known as Checker or Schuck's.
Kragen is the west coast name for it.

Rick Parker · #6 (**permalink**) 05-10-2007, 10:54 PM

I bought one at Harbor Tools for about $9.00 a few weeks ago for use on my daily driver. (considered them a "Throw away" after the job was done. It worked OK but was somewat difficult to use in the restricted areas near the springs.

767Jockey · #7 (**permalink**) 05-10-2007, 10:58 PM

I didn't think of Harbour Tools. Usually cheapo stuff, but that's all I need. The shocks are out of the car so access shouldn't be a problem. Thanks!

Sydney · #8 (**permalink**) 05-10-2007, 11:34 PM

I bought a cheap one from NAPA. I did have to grind on it a little so it would fit in between the coils. Not a problem though.

HI Cobra · #9 (**permalink**) 05-10-2007, 11:53 PM

I got a cheap set from Harbor Freight a while ago and have used them
several times on McPhearson struts in and out of the cars. They have held
up fine so far, but I agree - I'd probably spend more and get a "faster" set
if I were doing it a lot. J C Whitney probably has some cheap ones too.