Front Strut Replacement

[Chuckl]

I am trying to replace my front struts on my 1991 240SX. When I try and compress the springs I can't seem to compress them enough. I can only safely get on about two of the spring rings and it won't compress enough. I kind of tried putting the top of the spring compressor on the upper spring seat, but it looked like it could slip. I actually replaced front struts years ago on another car and I remember it coming loose, but I can't remember what I did to make it happen. Rear one went on fine because more spring rings. I am hoping someone responds while I go to lunch. If I get popped at least I won't be hungry.

Chuck

[Hijacker]

Can you post a picture of how you have your compressor set up?

[Chuckl]

Actually I just finished. I guess lunch helped. The way I had it set up it was only on two coils on one side and three on the other. Thats as wide as I could get it, because the upper spring seat at the top and the strut itself at the bottom, would get in the way. As I compressed it, the upper spring seat would then start going at an angle because nothing really was on it. I ended putting one end of the compressor on that spring seat, against my better judgement, and that made it more even. I still had to do it over and over, because it would start to slip and I had to start over. The backs were easier because I had more spread between coils to grab. I did think of a tool that I would make if I did this for a living though. Thanks for responding.

Chuck

[Hijacker]

Cool deal