OK, I've read the install writeup in the DIY section but I cannot figure out how to get the front springs off of the darn strut. I can get the entire assembly out. If I try to unscrew the nut at the top it just spins. If I try to unscrew it while still in the normal location the nut doesn't seem to move.
Either there's a special tool I'm missing (which the FSM alludes to) or I can't see the forest from the trees

Maybe because my bargain spring compressor ain't compressing enough???

HELP!

 

All you should have to do is compress the spring to rlease the pressure, the best bet, also safest, would be to go to a shop and have them do it if you are having a hard time with it.

 

i used griplocks to hold the shaft.. put some cloth between the shaft and the griplocks so u dont scrape them.. this will prevent the shaft from spinning while u unbolt the springs.. becareful as the springs have preload on them.. take the bolt of slowly

 

I fiddled with it for a bit, the decided it would be faster and easier to pay the local tire store $25 to do it.

 

Yeah, I guess I can remove them and have a shop replace the springs. Much cheaper than having them do it

I'll try a better spring compressor first since mine ain't worth $0.01 let alone the $15 I paid for it

 

i didnt even need to use a compressor

 

you could rent one at AutoZone for free, you pay $40 to rent, and you get $40 back when you return I put mine on a bench clamp.

 

I used an impact wrench to get the top strut nut off. It's the best tool to use to get that nut off.

As for springs off the strut... I used a spring compressor from AutoZone.

 

I tried to use my impact wrench, but the strut still spun instead, and I gave up after 30 seconds.

 

Yeah, when it was spinning for me, I put it back in the car and let the 3 bolts hold it in place. But as I turned the bolt the damn thing didn't move. I counted the threads and it didn't change after turning it a few times. Confused the hell outta me. I don't think the springs had any/much contact either at that point.
Yeah, I saw the tool rental stuff today and may try that too.

 

OK, for those of you who may try this, don't bother if you don't have a impact wrench. Man I suffered on so many bolts before that I'm going to go buy one after watching my buddy use it to help install my springs.
It's real tough to get the front spring/strut in and out and I don't think I could have done it alone.