11 replies to this topic

[kommander]

Do I require a spring compressor tool even if my car has hilos?

[nicklouse]

it helps. i always used one.

[Ethel]

I'd say yes.

 

 You might get the old cones out without one, but getting the new ones in and seated with the knuckle joint seals in place is another matter.

 

 

If you're on a budget & have the time you might get by with some threaded rod.

[imack]

I agree with Ethel.
I've just replaced the 48 year old cones on my car (I have hilo's)
No problem removing old cones without a compressor - rebound bumper removed and shock removed and the upper arm moved up and down without being under any spring tension.
Compressor needed to fit replacement cones even with hilo in shortest position.

Got the rears replaced just by winding hilo to shortest position.

[GraemeC]

I have done it without, but with standard rubber cones it does take careful use of pry bars to get the top arm up and the pin back through it.

If I remember rightly it is easier with red spot cones as they're a bit shorter.

 

If you value your fingers and/or aren't confident, then investing in (or borrowing) the tool is advised.

[nicklouse]

I have done it without, but with standard rubber cones it does take careful use of pry bars to get the top arm up and the pin back through it.

If I remember rightly it is easier with red spot cones as they're a bit shorter.

 

If you value your fingers and/or aren't confident, then investing in (or borrowing) the tool is advised.

reds are longer.

[GraemeC]

Are they - I thought they were shorter and squarer, never compared them side by side though.

[nicklouse]

Are they - I thought they were shorter and squarer, never compared them side by side though.

from Minispares

Hilos will be required to enable fitment as they are taller

 

[GraemeC]

That's slightly different - yes they are taller once the weight of the car is on them as they don't have the initial compression of the standard ones.
I'm sure if you put two new ones side by side on the bench the standard one is taller due to its very pointy shape.

[g0myw]

can you put out a request to loan a spring compressor in your area.?
I'm sure there are hundreds sitting in sheds that get used once every blue moon.
I'm in south bucks - you're more than welcome to use it.

[Harry L]

I would say you definitely do, I have HiLos and having just fitted new cones, there is no way on earth I'd have fitted them without a compressor. 

 

Not worth messing about for the sake of what, 30 quid?

[kommander]

can you put out a request to loan a spring compressor in your area.?
I'm sure there are hundreds sitting in sheds that get used once every blue moon.
I'm in south bucks - you're more than welcome to use it.

Thanks for the offer...but I'm from Trinidad.