gman3

To replace a front shock is it safe to just use a scissors jack to do the spring compression and decompression while on the car vs buying spring compressors? Thanks

Juffa

Yes, I have done this about 5 times on the 3 MX-5s that I have owned. I have some specific instructions in a couple of posts on the miatanet forum, but can't seem to access that site at the moment.

Just make sure the car is raised on a stable platform (car stands). Slowly lower or raise the jack when releasing or compressing the springs and you should be fine.
J.

Braineack

iTrader: (62)

don't see any reason why you'd need to use them while the shock is still installed...

Juffa

There is another method to remove springs without a spring compressor. I have used this method a number of times without injury to the car or myself.


Use your preferred method to ready the spring/shock absorber for removal, ie separate the ball joint or remove the upper A arm bolt.

Using a scissor jack to press up against the bottom of the suspension, ie on a point where you can safely apply upward pressure without the jack slipping.

Raise the jack until the spring is compressed. Be careful not to raise the jack to the point where the car is lifting off the jack stands.

Loosen and remove the single upper shock absorber nut. (do not do this unless the spring is being safely compressed by the scissor jack).

SLOWLY lower the scissor jack thus releasing the pressure on the spring. The spring will un-compress as the pressure from the jack is removed.

Once fully released the spring should be loose and ready for removal.

Pressing down on the lower suspension arm will allow the spring/shock absorber to be swung free from the upper mounting point.

At this point the spring and shock absorber can be removed.

Installation is a reversal of the above.

gman3

Thanks gonna try it this weekend

gman3

method worked great on the front shock I did, Thanks