Why you must use the proper tools. - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

andmoon · #1 10-18-2005, 02:24 PM

I know better but I attempted to replace the rear springs on my sdl w/out the 'inside' the coil spring compressor. Not enough room to fit the compressors 180 degrees apart so I set the around 120 degrees apart....
Now the spring is stuck half way out. Releasing the compressor has the spring releasing out of the pocket. Compressing will lead to some sort of injury.

I have been wrenching long enough to know better. I have been getting better and better at improvising...I stepped over the line this time.

Pls. submit all lectures along w/ ideas on how to release the spring w/out killing anyone....Of course only the front half of the car is outside the garage.

stayalert · #2 10-18-2005, 02:27 PM

will additional (maybe a few side by side) "outside the coil" compressors help you get back under control?

andmoon · #3 10-18-2005, 02:43 PM

No room where I need the extra compressor. That's why I wentt w/ the 120 degree idiot thinking.

xp190 · #4 10-18-2005, 03:15 PM

This is why I'm afraid to touch my springs but I'm tempted to do so.... but the right tool is pricey, way too pricey to buy it for a DIY, anyone know any others that would work?

As for the problem, how about a winch? can you use a steel cable to tie the spring down and guid it back into place bit by bit?

xp

TX76513 · #5 10-18-2005, 03:23 PM

This may be hard to picture from writing. Use cable tensioners and heavy cable loops, one on each side of spring. Slow but sure, reduce tension on you inside compressor.

meltedpanda · #6 10-18-2005, 03:25 PM

egads

doing spring work without the proper compression is asking for trouble! If one gets away it can literally tear through whatever is in its path, including human flesh, metal , walls , bystanders, you catch my drift.
BE CAREFUL

meltedpanda · #7 10-18-2005, 03:29 PM

see this thread, will this type help
Klann "clone" coil spring compressor - Is it good?

stayalert · #8 10-18-2005, 04:32 PM

When I get to copressing things I'll be checking out the tool loaner/rental opportunities at the top of the diesel forum...

engatwork · #9 10-18-2005, 07:02 PM

Here you go and stand on the other side of the car

.

long torch

Can you get a solid round bar through the center of the spring? Maybe at least 3/4" in diameter? If you can then you may be able to put it in there and slowly release the clamp that you currently have in there.

mbshop · #10 10-18-2005, 11:24 PM

well death kinda puts a dent in yer day so i would suggest
taking a torch and heating it up enough to take the spring
outa the spring and get another one. not that expensive.
i got the proper tools but if something did happen thats
what i would do. just not worth it.

george

andmoon · #11 10-19-2005, 04:08 AM

I got a 'inside the coil' compresser and finished the job. Thanks.
FYI, the HD springs are the same height as the regular spring and the 19 mm (thickest) pad doesn't do much for ride height.

I was a little surprised to see that the coat hanger sway bar end links are plastic.

Brian Carlton · #12 10-19-2005, 10:51 PM

Glad you solved it.

But, I have to ask..........two of us rent spring compressors and have posted them in the tools for rent over on DD..........why use the dangerous method when the proper tools are available for very cheap money??

andmoon · #13 10-20-2005, 09:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Brian Carlton

Glad you solved it.

But, I have to ask..........two of us rent spring compressors and have posted them in the tools for rent over on DD..........why use the dangerous method when the proper tools are available for very cheap money??

Stupid. In a hurry. Stupid. Idiot. Bad judgement. Low IQ. Stupid....repeat

The HD springs are working out super! Full diesel tank. 24 gallons of wvo in tanks in trunk and 5 cubes of collected oil (about 20 gals) yesterday and the rear sag was minimal!