After doing my W201 front springs with a workable cobbled up homemade compressor, I wouldn't dream of doing it with just a floor jack. If I were to attempt any kind of spring work without a compressor that goes up the inside of the spring, I'd secure it with a long bar or heavy chain inside it first so that if (when?) it pops loose it won't remove my face as it travels across the street. I have had this happen where I felt the breeze of the spring seat across my cheek and about 10 seconds later heard it land on the pavement across the street from my house. I got religion real quick. Don't fck around with springs. They can EASILY be lethal. Probably the most dangerous thing you can do on a car.

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1987 W201 190D