front struts, any "homemade" spring compressor tool?

[kevinkay]

I hate buying all the BMW "special tools"............

[blktoptrvl]

After re-reading your post, I see that you are looking for a compressor...

About 30 years ago, a friend used a compressor that looked very much like the one in this pic.

It worked, but always seemed to be on the verge of bending or breaking.

[admranger]

You can get spring compressors from Harbor Freight for small money.

[meltdown325]

I have one from Harbor Freight that I picked up about 6 yrs ago, and I've used it multiple times. It's on sale right now for under $10, and it gets the job done. Just buy the compressor and live to see another day. Those springs are under so much pressure that trying to rig up a homemade solution could result in your face getting ripped off.

EDIT: I think you rent/borrow a spring compressor from AutoZone as an alternative to purchasing

[admranger]

Originally Posted by meltdown325

I have one from Harbor Freight that I picked up about 6 yrs ago, and I've used it multiple times. It's on sale right now for under $10, and it gets the job done. Just buy the compressor and live to see another day. Those springs are under so much pressure that trying to rig up a homemade solution could result in your face getting ripped off.

My understanding is that it costs more to have a ripped off face replaced than buying harbor freight spring compressors (and being careful with them, they aren't foolproof by any means). I could be wrong though.

[kevinkay]

Thanks, anyone ever use the wieght of the car to compress the springs, (jack it up under spring, then chain it up, tie it somehow, remove the strut assembly, change the strut then using the jack again, let the spring open..........just thinking......

[Foose]

autozone offers the same spring compressor as pictured above. It's free. Just pay a security deposit and get it back after your return.