[127121-babypeti]

Hey guys

tomorrow I plan on installing my progress springs on my hatch and was just wondering what does everyone think is the best way to get the strut off of the control arm, quarter method, 1/4" adapter method or scissor jack method? everyone says that those are much easier than just hammering, so i wanna know whats the fastest and safest way.

i am a bit nervous to do the install, especially since i have never done such a thing before. i got the spring compressors from autozone, but im not quite 100% on how to use them..any tips?

and btw i don't have a floor jack, but i have two OEM scissor jacks and two jack stands. only problem is i have 3ton jack stands and i don't think they will even fit with the scissor jack extended all the way..so would it be safe to use the scissor jacks to keep the car up on both sides on the pinch welds?

just want to make sure im being safe and dont end up with the car on the ground...

 

[Krystm]

http://krystmsgarage.com/?p=148

Scissor Jack Method is the fastest and probably the easiest.

 

[nuffsaid]

Do not attempt unless car is on jack stands!

I used a combo of the scissor jack method, quarter method but used a flat head instead, and a lil bit of pounding.

Something you might consider if you are not comfortable with spring compressors...take the removed strut (w/stock spring still mounted) and your aftermarkets to a mechanic and have them switch them out. Mine switched out the springs on my struts for $20.

 

[127121-babypeti]

[quote author=nuffsaid link=topic=136399.msg2939391#msg2939391 date=1234754615]
Do not attempt unless car is on jack stands!

I used a combo of the scissor jack method, quarter method but used a flat head instead, and a lil bit of pounding.

Something you might consider if you are not comfortable with spring compressors...take the removed strut (w/stock spring still mounted) and your aftermarkets to a mechanic and have them switch them out. Mine switched out the springs on my struts for $20.
[/quote]

isn't the scissor jack kinda like a jack/ jack stand anyway....?

and ya thats a good idea if im nervous i might go to local mechanic[quote author=Krystm link=topic=136399.msg2939361#msg2939361 date=1234754011]
http://krystmsgarage.com/?p=148

Scissor Jack Method is the fastest and probably the easiest.
[/quote]

hey krystm did you use the autozone spring compressors, cuz thats what it looks like from your pics...were they pretty easy to use?

 

[Krystm]

No they were my friends but all u have to do is clamp them on and then tighten down. Make sure they are opposite sides. They are pretty easy to use though. You really ahve to just take your time and make sure the car is on jack stands. At least the front when doing the fronts then rears etc.

 

[127121-babypeti]

[quote author=Krystm link=topic=136399.msg2939453#msg2939453 date=1234756150]
No they were my friends but all u have to do is clamp them on and then tighten down. Make sure they are opposite sides. They are pretty easy to use though. You really ahve to just take your time and make sure the car is on jack stands. At least the front when doing the fronts then rears etc.
[/quote]

ya to be honest the spring install looks easy...only part im worried about are jacking car up and playin around with the spring compressors...hopefully it will go smoothly

 

[TEKWATCH]

rear springs = easy
front springs = not so easy

 

[fiji mazda3]

I don't have anything to add really, but could you do me a favor and take a couple of before and after pictures for me? I have the same springs waiting to be put on, but want to know what they will look like once installed.

 

[127121-babypeti]

[quote author=Fiji Mazda3 link=topic=136399.msg2939535#msg2939535 date=1234758482]
I don't have anything to add really, but could you do me a favor and take a couple of before and after pictures for me? I have the same springs waiting to be put on, but want to know what they will look like once installed.
[/quote]

ok ill def do that....hopefully i dont chicken out and do it later

 

[fiji mazda3]

You better not chicken out. :lol: It's not too bad, just time-consuming. The hardest part is using the spring compressor. Takes forever to wrench it down.

Good luck.

 

[TEKWATCH]

Careful with springs compressors, you will poke your eye out :lol:

 

[127121-babypeti]

how far do i even need to compress it? enough to have free play within the strut before i take the nut off?

 

[Krystm]

just enough so it doesnt fly apart when u get the nut off the strut. I did it till my air ratchet stalled out lol

 

[nuffsaid]

Maybe someone from forum in your area can lend a helping hand

 

[127121-babypeti]

hey guys i need help immediately! i was bolting everything down in the front and i go to put the abs sensor on the driver's side, and the plastic on half of the sensor was broken, but the other side is intact with the prongs still sticking out....do i need to replace the sensor or can i just get the prongs onto the sensor and tape it or something like that?

 

[Krystm]

if everything lookks like it will fit you could tape it maybe any pics of this?

 

[127121-babypeti]

well the plug def is going on/touching the prongs it just doesn't actually 'click' or 'clip' but it does come in contact

 

[steverife]

[quote author=babypetit link=topic=136399.msg2942497#msg2942497 date=1234893830]
hey guys i need help immediately! i was bolting everything down in the front and i go to put the abs sensor on the driver's side, and the plastic on half of the sensor was broken, but the other side is intact with the prongs still sticking out....do i need to replace the sensor or can i just get the prongs onto the sensor and tape it or something like that?
[/quote]

I did that and wrapped mine in electrical tape. It has been that way for a year w/no issues.

 

[127121-babypeti]

good news guys fronts are done, went for a drive and abs sensor was on for 20 seconds with stability control sensor but then they both went off. i restarted the car and they both stayed off....thank goodness. in addition no squeaks or funny noises in the front!

...time to do with rear and pics coming up!

 

[Krystm]

rears will take u no time at all. be sure to get an allignment