Are there any special tools I need to change out my springs besides a spring compressor?
Member
Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 17,278
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Just as a word of warning....Spring compressor is a necessity but also
there are a few other things you need and need to know
1) If you dont have acess to air tools(specifically, an impact wrench), you need the special tool that will remove the upper strut bearing nut. It look like a socket that has a place for a wrench to hold the nut
You also need to know that you will have a problem getting the passenger side front strut housing out from the car because the A-Arm will not go down far enough because the axle interferes with the subframe. You need to take off the spindle from the A-Arm unless you are willing to cut off the stock spring.
1) If you dont have acess to air tools(specifically, an impact wrench), you need the special tool that will remove the upper strut bearing nut. It look like a socket that has a place for a wrench to hold the nut
You also need to know that you will have a problem getting the passenger side front strut housing out from the car because the A-Arm will not go down far enough because the axle interferes with the subframe. You need to take off the spindle from the A-Arm unless you are willing to cut off the stock spring.
AudiWorld Uber User
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 53,281
Likes: 2
Slight correction......
Sean...just did (2) cars so this is still fresh. Impact tool for the top nut is not absolutely necessary, but air tools in general will speed things along. Car #2 (Bill's O2bnme) took 3 hous for the entire suspension swap to Bilsteins. On Bill's car, both sides had some intereference at full suspension extension. We had to loosen the (4) subframe bolts and lower the frame about 3/4 inch to get enough clearance to remove the struts from the carriers. This sounds scarier than it is, really very simple...Bill has a page of photos, but I forget the ADR, (Bill??). The only other tool you'll need is a BIG hammer....
Steve
Steve
Senior Member
Joined: Mar 2000
Posts: 6,394
Likes: 1
Further addition... regarding subframe... *i m p o r t a n t*
The subframe bolts are "torque-to-yield" stretch bolts and are specified for replacement any time they are loosened or removed. The narrow neck of the bolt under the cap is where they stretch. This is why the torque specs include 1/4 turn after reaching the proper torque value. Jason will back me up on this.
Personally, I would replace the bolts, especially if the car will see any hard driving or track use. They are $30 a set.
<IMG SRC="http://www.evan.com/tt_pics/milltek/stretchbolts.jpg">
Personally, I would replace the bolts, especially if the car will see any hard driving or track use. They are $30 a set.
<IMG SRC="http://www.evan.com/tt_pics/milltek/stretchbolts.jpg">
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