How to use a coil spring compressor
Tom Vondrasek | 19th May 2024 | 7 minutes to read
Coil spring compressors are essential tools for anyone looking to work on their vehicle's suspension system. Whether you're replacing worn-out springs or upgrading to a new set, knowing how to use a coil spring compressor safely and effectively is crucial. This guide will walk you through the general process, though the specifics of your suspension components might dictate a different procedure.
Note that installation of a new coil spring can be very dangerous, as compressing springs creates huge amounts of force that can be released instantly if the spring compressor fails, so if you are not confident in your ability to perform the task, it’s always best to contact a professional mechanic to do it for you.
Here are the basic steps for using a coil spring compressor and its applications:
- Why Do I Need a Coil Spring Compressor?
- What Does It Look Like?
- Replacing Coil Springs or Other Suspension Components
- Installing Struts or Shocks
- Performing Suspension Upgrades
- Choose the Right Spring Compressor
- Prepare Your Workspace & Tools
- Jack Up the Vehicle
- Performing Suspension Upgrades
- Locate the Coil Spring
- Tighten the Compressor
- Secure the Spring
- Complete Your Task
- Removing the Compressor
Why Do I Need a Coil Spring Compressor?
A spring compressor is a specialised tool designed to compress coil springs, which are commonly found in vehicle suspension systems. Its primary purpose is to safely compress the coil spring, reducing its height and taking the tension it creates off the other suspension components. This makes its removal easier.
What is a Spring Compressor?
A coil spring compressor consists of two main components. A pair of clamps or hooks that grip onto the coils of the spring, and a threaded rod or mechanism that applies pressure to compress the spring. By tightening the compressor, the coils of the spring are squeezed together, reducing its overall length. They also add more tension to the spring so need to be used carefully. They come in pairs, one for each side of the spring. They are commonly used for a number of automotive repair and maintenance tasks.
Replacing Coil Springs or Other Suspension Components
When a coil spring needs to be replaced due to wear or damage, a spring compressor is essential for safely removing the old spring and installing the new one. Compressing the spring may also allow for the easy removal of other suspension components that are under spring tension and need replacing or fixing. If you don’t use them the sudden release of spring tension can cause injury to people or damage other vehicle components.
Installing Struts or Shocks
Coil springs are used in conjunction with struts or shock absorbers in vehicle suspension systems. When replacing these components, a spring compressor may be required to compress the spring, allowing for easier installation or maintenance of the strut or shock assembly.
Performing Suspension Upgrades
When upgrading the suspension system with aftermarket springs for handling or ride height adjustments, the spring compressor may be necessary to compress the springs for removal and installation of the new ones.
Tools for the Job
- Coil spring compressor
- Safety goggles
- Gloves
- Spanner set
Choose the Right Spring Compressor
Not all coil spring compressors are created equal. Make sure you select one that is suitable for the size and type and most importantly tension of the coil spring you'll be working with. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions or consult with a knowledgeable automotive expert if you're unsure which compressor to use.
Prepare Your Workspace & Tools
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary equipment. Safety should always come first when working with heavy-duty tools like these, so don't skip out on protective gear.
Find a flat, level surface to work on and ensure there's enough space around the vehicle to manoeuvre the compressor safely. Clear away any debris or obstacles that could get in the way during the process.
Jack Up the Vehicle
Use a jack to lift the corner of the vehicle where the coil spring needs to be compressed. Make sure the vehicle is securely supported on jack stands and the suspension is fully drooped before proceeding. Safety first! Removing the wheel makes access to the suspension components easier. There may be other components you need to remove before tackling the spring so consulting a workshop manual or online reference material before starting is handy.
Locate the Coil Spring
Identify the coil spring you'll be working on. It's usually located between the upper and lower control arms of the suspension system. For struts, the strut may need to be removed from the vehicle. If you're unsure, consult your vehicle's manual or seek advice from a qualified mechanic.
Position the Compressor
Place the coil spring compressor on the coil spring, ensuring that it's centred and securely seated. It’s best to position the spring on a bench or on the floor horizontally, ensuring that the pointed ends of the spring are both facing away from your body.
This will help to prevent the spring from hitting you should the compressor fail.
The hooks or clamps should grip the coils firmly to prevent any slippage during compression. Coming as a pair, the compressors should be 180 degrees apart in around the same position on each side of the coil spring.
If you want to be particularly safe, you can use 2 pairs of spring compressors to compress the spring, so that if one set bends or fails, the other set can still hold it in place and prevent injury.
Tighten the Compressor
Using a socket, tighten the compressor gradually and evenly on both sides. Make sure to alternate between sides to maintain equal pressure on the spring. Take your time and don't rush this step – slow and steady wins the race. Equal pressure on the spring is fundamental to safely compressing the spring, as uneven pressure can cause the tool to slip or be damage, releasing the huge amount of force contained in the coiled spring. Do not use an air or electric tool when doing these up as they rotate too quickly and it’s easy to bend one side of the compressor too far, causing failure; safety should be your number one priority, not speed.
Compress the Spring
Continue tightening the compressor until the coil spring is fully compressed to the desired level. Be cautious and keep an eye on the compressor and the spring throughout the process to ensure everything is secure and stable.
Secure the Spring
Once the spring is compressed to the desired level, double-check that the compressor is securely tightened and that the spring is not slipping or shifting. Safety is paramount at this stage, so don't hesitate to re-adjust if necessary.
Complete Your Task
With the spring securely compressed, you can now proceed with your intended task, whether it's replacing the spring, installing new suspension components, or making adjustments to the suspension system. Take your time and work methodically to ensure everything is done correctly.
Removing the Compressor
This needs to be the reverse of the installation. Make sure the spring is in the correct spot. Gradually unwind the compressor in small increments using the socket, going from one side to the next. Once there is no more tension on each of the spring compressors, they can safely be removed.
By following these steps carefully and paying close attention to safety precautions, you can effectively use a coil spring compressor to work on your vehicle's suspension system with confidence and peace of mind. Remember, when it comes to automotive repair, safety should always be your top priority and if you're unsure about any of the steps in this article, get help from a professional.