Going to be changing out my front lower control arms today. The guy that is going to be assisting me says that I do not need to compress the springs before removing them since we do not have the tool for it. This seems a bit unsafe, but I do not know just how much tension these will be under. We will have the car on a body lift, so the wheels will be hanging down, so they will not be fully compressed at least. Then the idea is to use a "High Position Jack Stand" like pictured below to support the control arm as I take the bolts off and then slowly lower it down by unscrewing the jack stand adjustment. Someone else mentioned chaining the spring to the frame to make sure that it does not shoot out. lol

If this is as unsafe as it sounds, I do not mind buying a spring compressor from Advanced Auto or Auto Zone today before I go if they are not over $100 or so. Please feel free to suggest a product if you have one you like.

Thanks,

 

Looks like Advanced Auto parts rents out certain tools for no charge. Gonna go get a spring compressor. You basically just buy it and then return it within 30 days. And it is only about $70 anyway.

Ciao!

 

Do NOT attempt to use the 2 part type that goes on the outside of the springs.
You need the type that has an upper and lower plate with the bolt in the inside of the spring.
I have a set, wish you were closer

 

A standard spring compressor is not going to help you in this situation, you need a Mercedes specific spring compressor tool for this job.

 

Yes, that is what I was referring to, I have the MB set.

 

Those springs do not come down directly vertical but move in an arch. The tall jack you plan on using WILL NOT take any force to the sides. It is used only for straight down force. What you are attempting is really dangerous. Borrow a spring compressor from an auto parts store if you can find the correct type, or buy one. It is a lot less expensive than one trip to the hospital.

 

I've removed/installed my springs (front and rear) without and later on, with a compressor. Where you save or lose your sanity is getting it back together. IF you have a helper you can get it together once you figure out how to tug/pull and in which direction without one. If your only doing it once in your lifetime, it's worth the effort to do it without. If you believe the springs will be coming out multiple times buy the correct spring compressor off ebay or amazon and breeze through the work.

Les

 

So how did it Go? With or without a spring compressor?