I've done it on a 201 -- which is the same set-up but dementionally smaller.

HERE'S THE MOST IMPORTANT STEP: I created a "safety chain" by running a loop of chain through the spring and around the control arm, so that even if the spring did let go, it was secure.

I kept the control arm attached to the body of the car, and with the jack under the ball joint, I slowly/carefully lowered the jack... allowing the control arm to pivot.

The safety chain never came into play in my case -- both my springs went off and on without incident. But to perform this proceedure without it would be profoundly dangerous -- and stupid. (in my humble opinion)

jp

__________________
Jeff Pierce

Current Vehicles:
'92 Mercedes 190E/2.3 (247K miles/my daily driver)
'93 Volvo 940 Turbo Wagon (263K miles/a family truckster with spunk)
'99 Kawasaki Concours
Gravely 8120
Previous Vehicles:
'85 Jeep CJ-7 w/ Fisher plow (226K miles)'93 Volvo 940 Turbo Wagon
'53 Willys-Overland Pickup
'85 Honda 750F Interceptor
'93 Nissan Quest
'89 Toyota Camry Wagon
'89 Dodge Raider
'81 Honda CB 750F Super Sport
'88 Toyota Celica
'95 Toyota Tacoma
'74 Honda CB 550F