Ryan,
Unless you're replacing the lower control arm bushings you don't need the spring compressor. The lower ball joint is in the steering knuckle/spindle. It can be removed safely and easily without removing the springs. The upper arm and ball joint are even easier. I've got that down to about thirty minutes a side. You do need a special tool to do the lower ball joint, or take it to a shop that has one. If you want to make a contribution to my tool aquisistion fund I'll get one, and you can bring the brown bomber down and we'll knock it out in an afternoon. I can see more lower ball joints in my future, with three SDs and counting. If you sign up for a free yahoo acct. look at this link for a couple ball joint pics.
http://photos.yahoo.com/bc/h2odiesel/lst?.dir=/My+Photos&.view=t

Bob DuPuy
Parrish, Fl
83 300SD
84 300SD
83 300SD
80 Unimog 416 DOKA (still on the way)

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Bob D.
Parrish, FL
1 SDL, 1 D, 1 TD, 1 Mog