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As a do-it-yourselfer, I’m always looking for ways to fix things myself to save some money (and have fun). I felt that changing my own front struts was within my abilities, so I decided to tackle it. However, I came across a problem when I went to buy a tool to help me do it. I only knew of two styles of coil spring compressor tools:
1. I could buy the $50 rod-type spring compressors that Eric uses in his videos. The problem is I don’t think these are safe because they could slide and cause the spring to smash my face in.
2. I could buy the heavy duty spring compressor machines that pros use, which are totally safe. One problem is that they are huge and need a lot of floor space in a garage. Another problem is that they cost $500 or more. This is way out of my budget.
Then I came across a tool that solved my problem. It is called the OTC Clamshell Strut Spring Compressor (OTC 6494 is the tool number). LINK TO TOOL ON AMAZON
The tool is $140, which is more expensive than the rod-type. But it’s totally worth the money. It’s built in the USA, made of heavy duty materials, and the design is way safer than the rod-type. I changed my front struts this weekend, and I felt very safe.
Some of you may know about this style already, but since I didn’t at first I thought it might be helpful to share.
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Agreed the rod type usally slips on me but luckily only before I remove the bolt to release the spring. I have never seen a spring compressor that small only the big ones that cost an arm and a leg which I wouldn’t use that often anyways
I’ve used the clamshell type spring compressors before and for the applications that it fits on the springs they work well. The only issue I’ve found is they sometimes can’t grab certain spring sizes. Other then that for the money if it suits your application its a damn good tool for the money in my opinion.
Hi matthewross1987,
Does it work well?
How does the wear and tear look after use?I got the cheaper version of this, similar in build from Harbor Freight.
The Harbor Freight one is lankier due to lack of that half moon support surface at the pass through compression arm.
The one in your link looks to be of stronger design, though cannot really tell if there is enough play on at least two arms so that the clamshell can fit a graduated spring.just sharing my 2 cents.
[quote=”matthewross1987″ post=87347]As a do-it-yourselfer, I’m always looking for ways to fix things myself to save some money (and have fun). I felt that changing my own front struts was within my abilities, so I decided to tackle it. However, I came across a problem when I went to buy a tool to help me do it. I only knew of two styles of coil spring compressor tools:
1. I could buy the $50 rod-type spring compressors that Eric uses in his videos. The problem is I don’t think these are safe because they could slide and cause the spring to smash my face in.
2. I could buy the heavy duty spring compressor machines that pros use, which are totally safe. One problem is that they are huge and need a lot of floor space in a garage. Another problem is that they cost $500 or more. This is way out of my budget.
Then I came across a tool that solved my problem. It is called the OTC Clamshell Strut Spring Compressor (OTC 6494 is the tool number). LINK TO TOOL ON AMAZON
The tool is $140, which is more expensive than the rod-type. But it’s totally worth the money. It’s built in the USA, made of heavy duty materials, and the design is way safer than the rod-type. I changed my front struts this weekend, and I felt very safe.
Some of you may know about this style already, but since I didn’t at first I thought it might be helpful to share.[/quote]
You have a good looking tool. I have to take exception with all rod types being unsafe. I have a Lisle 62300 and if one takes the time to assemble it correctly there’s no way it is going to slip.
I use this one http://www.amazon.com/OEM-25550-Strut-Spring-Compressor/dp/B000CMDPLM/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1400614435&sr=8-2&keywords=Strut+tool
It’s a free loaner from Auto Zone here where I live
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