What spring compressor are you guys using for your third gens?

How many uses are you getting before the spring compressor dies?

Today, I killed a $35 Autocraft model AC685.

I was able to do one test-compression, and then install one spring before the threads were toast. Yes, I did use lubrication on it.

I used an impact wrench with the AC685. There seems to be some belief that one should not use a power wrench on these cheap compressors. There may be some truth to that. Although, the flimsy threads and soft metal on these tools inspire no confidence that they will last for long, no matter how much you baby them.

This is the one I killed today.

 

Spring-compressor action begins at 26:45

 

I rented one the one time I needed it. Life flashes before your eyes. Don't like that procedure at all. Definitely used a safety chain. ....with lowering springs you don't need one, so thankfully it was only the one time I needed it.

 

I rented the OEM inside compressor from Autozone.

http://www.autozone.com/loan-a-tools...sor/555573_0_0

It marred up the same way yours did. Still worked though.

I did not like the apparent strain it put on the compressor but I had no other choice. In the end it worked fine. As a precaution, I always handled the coil from the center, that way, if it did let go, I would theoretically be away from both ends of the rapid expansion.

I have also used strut spring compressors successfully on these cars. They seem to be much stronger and, thus safer but are more cumbersome to use.

http://www.autozone.com/loan-a-tools...sor/555557_0_0

 

I use the OTC 7045B, for multiple vehicles and many times. It is much higher quality than the one you pictured.

 

I've never seen that design before. Interesting.

 

^^ That's the one I will invest in if I have to do my springs again.

 

I prefer the AutoZone rental, but Modify it so it works better,..... A Large socket is best IMO but as you can see, a stack of wheel-lug washers works too !



https://www.thirdgen.org/forums/susp...g-install.html

 

Use a pipe nipple as in post #5 of the following link:

https://www.thirdgen.org/forums/susp...nt-spring.html

JamesC

 

Many - and majority - very high reviews on the Amazon site.

Link to OTC manufacturer's site: https://www.otctools.com/products/fr...ing-compressor

 

I like it because the design is such that it can't slip radially around the coils like those other potentially can. I have had them slip when I was tightening initially, real pucker factor there. It also has a ball thrust bearing in the screw, so it doesn't bind when you start getting the spring pressure up there. Also has plates for two different coil sizes. Well worth the money if you're going to use it two times or more. I have used it about 5 times so far and will use it again many times

 

The otc is the one you need.