Hello,

I have a 1995 Dodge Dakota Sport with the 5.2L V8, 2WD. To remove the coil spring from the vehicle, the service manual says use spring compressor tool DD-1278. This tool retails for around $180 USD.

I realize that you can probably remove the coil spring without using a spring compressor. However, as I am a bit of a safety nut, I would pref to use one.

Has anyone had good luck with a cheaper substitute tool? I have heard many horror stories of springs coming loose with certain shoddy compressors. Or, if you have a DiY method with some instructions and pictures, that would be appreciated as well.

Can anyone recommend one that they have found to work well - and safely?

Thanks

 

This simple one from Autozone will do just fine. It may be hard to get all inside the coil spring though.

The best way to do it is let the suspension completely drop, then install the compressor all you need is to slightly compress it. It is meant just to take the tension off it so when you brake off the knuckle the spring doesn't come flying out. Then you can remove the compressor then the spring.

 

Hi Crazy4x4RT. Do you have a link to the compressor? Sorry, I don't see one.

 

No I didn't. Here it is you can always search their site.
http://www.autozone.com/autozone/acc...er=555573_0_0_

 

Awesome. Thanks! Will check this out.