1999 E320 lower control arm w/out spring compressor
 

Can the lower control arm be removed without compressing the coil spring.

If not can i simply keep the springs partly compressed with the Autozone rental tool spring strut compressor (but leave the sping in place) while removing the control arm?

I need to change the control arm bushings.

Thanks

has anyone removed the front lower control arms with coil spring in the car?

Removing the lower control arm to have the bushings pressed out and new ones pressed in at a local shop is easy. I lowered the arm with a floor jack once all the bolt/nuts below mentioned were disconected. The spring is then easily is removed in a uncompressed state. The spring sits nicely in its perch as you hinge out the lower arm with the floor jack. Just disconnect the lower shock fastner, stabiliser link (need a torx bit), upper control arm ball joint, and lower ball joint. Once the spring is out you just unbolt the two 22mm nut/bolts where the control arm is affixed to the frame. Becareful, I guess you could hurt yourself if you don't think or have limited experience. I doubt any experienced tech would hook up a spring compressor to remove the front coil spring but maybe I'm wrong