W.E.G.

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.

W.E.G.

Spring-compressor action begins at 26:45

Abubaca

iTrader: (3)

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.

Tootie Pang

iTrader: (2)

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

scooter

iTrader: (11)

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

DynoDave43

iTrader: (11)

I've never seen that design before. Interesting.

Tootie Pang

iTrader: (2)

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

John in RI

iTrader: (167)

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

JamesC

iTrader: (5)

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

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

JamesC

W.E.G.

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

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

scooter

iTrader: (11)

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

IROCZ1989

iTrader: (1)

The otc is the one you need.