spring compressor

[Alex Rodriguez]

I went to change the struts on my 88 Honda Accord and when I looked at the springs I found that my current spring compressors won't work because the springs on the car are so small. Can anyone recommend a compressor that will work?

 

[George Macdonald]

I went to change the struts on my 88 Honda Accord and when I looked at the springs I found that my current spring compressors won't work because the springs on the car are so small. Can anyone recommend a compressor that will work?

The Lisle tool works and is a relatively safe design but is a bit of a PITA to deal with and is not designed for new springs:
http://store.autotoolexpress.com/macstruttool.html

This one looks interesting:
http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/Displayitem.taf?itemnumber=47890 but it's difficult to know if it fits the bill.

Rgds, George Macdonald

"Just because they're paranoid doesn't mean you're not psychotic" - Who, me??

 

[Alex Rodriguez]

The Lisle tool works and is a relatively safe design but is a bit of a PITA to deal with and is not designed for new springs:
http://store.autotoolexpress.com/macstruttool.html

I looked at this, but the price is a bit high. I would be better off pulling the strut and then paying a shop to replace the shock. Also, the two bolt tool are a pain. You have to turn them evenly to get them to work properly. A single bolt tool like http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/Displayitem.taf?itemnumber=43753 is more convenient. I have this tool, but it won't fit the Honda's tiny springs.

This one looks interesting:
http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/Displayitem.taf?itemnumber=47890 but it's difficult to know if it fits the bill.

I looked at this tool too. It looks interesting and I like the design. If expected to change lots of shocks, I would probably spend the money to buy one of these. It looks very easy and convenient to use.

Thanks for the tips. I am probalby going to shop around a bit more to find a tool that will fit the smaller springs. I won't be getting to this for a couple of weeks, so I have some time.

 

[CaptainKrunch]

you can usually rent them from local parts stores for cheap.

captainKrunch

 

[Alex Rodriguez]

you can usually rent them from local parts stores for cheap.

I'm going to look into this too. Someone mention autozone rents tools. I'll see what they have available. Thanks to everyone for all their tips.