The one thing I like about the ebay style is that because it bolts to the spring saddle the spring can be correctly oriented to the tab on the saddle. That’s critical to keep the height even from side to side. I have a longer list of what I don’t like. I like the looks of the Brannick style. I will have to try that next time.
I installed my coil springs last week using a Autozone rental Bannick style compressor. First time using it and felt safer than the double claw type. I installed it with the claw on top, flat portion on bottom. I can offer pointers if you choose this route.
Please do Sean. Not sure I understand how that would have worked.
I was just in O’Reilly Auto Part store today. They offer the Banick style spring compressor as a free rental. You simply have to give them a $50 deposit.
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Ok here it goes. Autozone offers 90 day return on rentals vs O’reillys 3 day return, so no brainer here in my opinion.
- Ensure threads on rental unit are in good shape
- When aligning compressor, top claw should be at least 1/4 of a coil away from where it meets the upper mount to avoid the claw being pinched
- Lower flat portion should not be on bottom coil, preferably 2nd or 3rd from bottom. It will require more compressing, but will be easier to remove and the hex end should not hit the perch
- Take your time aligning claw and lower flat mount so that the threaded upright is as vertical as possible or at least offset to ensure even compression and avoid compressing the spring to one side. This is important, I reset the unit multiple times
- If you install how intended, you’ll need to use a wrench to loosen the compressor once spring is installed. This is a PITA
- Recommended to not use impact gun (I did)
The first coil I compressed, I installed the flat portion too low and had a lovely time removing it. The second coil went a lot smoother by utilizing the above
Sean
I have the purpose-built one WCCC sells (which I think is the same as the ebay one?), used it a few times without any issue.
It’s looking good Bill. I like the stance.
I had a KD tool just like the one listed here, the threads failed after 6 uses it failed as I was unwinding a compressed big block spring. I would avoid this tool and the threads were always clean and lubricated.