General changing springs/shocks

[Leesfer]

Is it difficult to change the springs and shocks yourself? Currently everything down there is stock but I am looking to put perf springs and KYB shocks, would be better to just save myself and take it to a shop? (also want to put swaybars while I'm at it) Just looking for general advice on this from the pros out there

[mdrburchette]

The shocks aren't hard to do, but you'll need a spring compressor to remove the springs. While you're at it, you may want to check the control arm bushings, ball joints and wheel bearings.

[Leesfer]

All in all its a basic bolt off bolt on process right? Where can I find a spring compressor?

[rlux4]

You can rent them. Most auto parts stores sell them. There is more than one style, so take a good look at how much clearance around your spings you have.
Ron

[Leesfer]

also I was reading that some people like cutting even the sport springs, what tool should I use to cut them?

[mbouse]

Auto Zone has a tool loan program. you put down a deposit, take home the tools and then get 100% of your deposit back when you return the tools.

for that price, you should never do without some of those specialty tools.

and, don't try to skimp and use c-clamps instead of spring compressors.... your teeth and eyes will thank you, and so will your fingers.

[Leesfer]

One more thing... how many coils do you guys recommend cutting off of the perf springs (if any)? Coz if I'm ganna have them all off then it would be great to get the cutting and everything done at once, you know?

[So Cal Mark]

why buy springs to cut? why not just cut the stock springs?

[Leesfer]

I guess that makes more sense, I just didn't know how long springs last or how to check if they are bad... figured just buying new ones would ease my mind

[So Cal Mark]

if all 4 corners are the same height, the springs are not sagged

[Torxx]

You would only want to consider cutting the rear springs, and only if you think rear is higher than you like. When you get in there and look at how the rear springs set in the top and bottom, you will see there is only one cut on the springs that will make sense, which is one coil shorter. That brought my rear down to almost level with front. No spring compressor is needed for the rear. You may want to experiment with cutting the stock rear springs and see how you like.

[danaspider]

A couple of things I have seen. When you are looking at the coil compressors you will need the internal type of compresion device for the fronts. (goes inside the coil) on the rear outside works. When I got the internal from Shucks Auto I added a pipe extension around the compression screw, to keep the nut outside the coil spring.

As to cutting the coils. Many of the new springs are progressive, tighter coil at one end from the other and therefore getting stiffer as they are compressed while giving a little softer when not compressing. I would be careful cutting these. If going to cut then use the "old" original constant springs.

There are several spring sets available that will lower the front by about an inch, and the rear by about 1.5 inch resulting in a more level look.

Just my views.

[Torxx]

Cutting the springs was a tough choice I had to make. Obviously I would have preferred not to alter the manufactures design... but...I was hoping the new progressive springs would make my car more level from the stock setup, but all it did was lower my '79 proportionally front and rear. The rear was way too high for my taste, plus I already bought the springs (and paid for installation). I specified to the mechanic to test the height before bolting the rear back together, and shortening the rear springs if need be. I can't tell any ill effects so far, but I'm not building a race car or anything, just a little spirited driving now and again.

I may have misspoke regarding not needing to compress the rear springs to remove. After thinking about it I can't recall the install of the rear. It kind of looks like you could do it without compression, but I didn't do it myself.