I have been using one of those $12 spring compressor from HF. They last for maybe 2 cars before the threads become so bad it can't be used anymore. I am thinking of moving up to the clam shell type or maybe the hydraulic type. I just use them on tech days (2-3 days a year)for the Miata club I am in. So I don't want to spend big bucks on it. But I do want something that will last a little longer than 2 cars (8 springs). Any body have any experience with these tools want to share their knowledge?
Strut spring compressor
- Thread starter sizzler90
- Start date
This is the set I have... I have used it over 20 times and the threads still look new. I do oil it before and after use. I bought it from Autozone ... a new store had opened in the area and I went in and ask about a strut compressor and they showed me what they had on the shelf and the brand new rental tools ... I asked if I could buy the rental tool and they said sure ... I also have the HF clamshell ... it works, but is very awkward ...
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Yes this is the one you want!!!!!!!!!!
SpiderGearsMan
Banned
I have a lincoln clamshell
the best are brannick wall mount
the best are brannick wall mount
Hazet makes a VERY nice looking unit, but no idea on price.
http://www.samstagsales.com/hzspring.htm
http://www.samstagsales.com/hzspring.htm
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Merkava_4
Banned
I've used the same one that ImportTuner has posted and have found it to be straight forward tool. I can't comment on the clamshell type because I haven't tried one yet. 
eschoendorff
Well-known member
Anyone else put anti-seize on the threads? I do that with my pullers and it seems to work pretty well... threads are still good...
Cummins_Powered
Well-known member
Yikes...I had the Harbor Freight one and it broke on me as i was using it. That was kind of scary.
The first one I had from HF did the same thing. I think it was because I compressed the spring to much, or maybe not evenly. I think the next set I will take a look at the one at AutoZone. The one in Importtuners photo looks of better quality.
Cummins_Powered
Well-known member
Same here, i think i just over did it a little too much. Even still, that was a scary experience trying to get the other spring compressor off without killing myself
russlaferrera
Well-known member
I use the HF Clamshell for about 15 vehicles so far. Been working great.
Don't you find that it is awkward to use? And turning that lead screw provides very little movement ... guess I'm always in a rush ...
Fedwrench
ALLIANCE MEMBER
What's the environment like that you use the spring compressor in? Are you using it in a shop or on the ground under a pop up awning?
What are the chances of pooling club resources to get a more stable Branick model? It's hard to beat a Branick for a permanent installation. However, if you need portable, the Lisle or KD versions with safety pins are ok. They're even safer if you use 2 pair per spring instead of just 2.
A thin coat of Antiseize on the threads is the best thing you can do to prolong the life of pullers and spring compressors.
What are the chances of pooling club resources to get a more stable Branick model? It's hard to beat a Branick for a permanent installation. However, if you need portable, the Lisle or KD versions with safety pins are ok. They're even safer if you use 2 pair per spring instead of just 2.
A thin coat of Antiseize on the threads is the best thing you can do to prolong the life of pullers and spring compressors.
We used the OTC version and used a 1/2" Nitrocat to turn it.
Charles (in GA)
Well-known member
I have the two screw sticks as shown above by ImportTuner, they are from Sears and are quite sturdy, but a little slow to use. They did not work well at all on my coil over shock setup on my Plymouth Breeze (Cirrus/Stratus line) but I was successful in changing the springs, but would look for something different next time. This line of cars has a true coil over shock with upper/lower unequal length A arms, and is not a McPherson strut setup.
I do however, suspect the screw sticks work well on most struts, its just that on my car the springs are such a close/tight fit over the shocks, and the springs taper down in size on one end.
Charles
I do however, suspect the screw sticks work well on most struts, its just that on my car the springs are such a close/tight fit over the shocks, and the springs taper down in size on one end.
Charles
MAD
Well-known member
I believe Cal-Van tools # 513 is the actual OEM model for the strut spring compressor that has been discussed in the recent posts.
http://www.thetoolwarehouse.net/shop/CAL-513.html
http://www.thetoolwarehouse.net/shop/CAL-513.html
They are used in home garages. Anybody can host a tech day. For the most part it's moslty a wash and wax thing with a little bit of wrench turning (strut changes, fluid changes roll bar and new top installs) thown in to call it a tech day.What's the environment like that you use the spring compressor in? Are you using it in a shop or on the ground under a pop up awning?
What are the chances of pooling club resources to get a more stable Branick model? It's hard to beat a Branick for a permanent installation. However, if you need portable, the Lisle or KD versions with safety pins are ok. They're even safer if you use 2 pair per spring instead of just 2.
A thin coat of Antiseize on the threads is the best thing you can do to prolong the life of pullers and spring compressors.
This is a reasonable priced unit.http://www.autopart.com/tools/toolsmain/tool/T_4037.htm
If your search the site they have other ones. http://www.ntxtools.com/
Searh strut compressors for more expensive units.
If your search the site they have other ones. http://www.ntxtools.com/
Searh strut compressors for more expensive units.
krusty the clown
Member Emeritus
cruiser808
Well-known member
They are expensive, but work every time. Samstag is a fine company to deal with (I have no economic connection what so ever). I used to restore old MB's from the 60's to 80's and Samtag always took care of me for needed special MB tools. Andrew is a class act guy.
For home (personel) use I'm leaning toward buying the clamshell type,not the flimsy HFor E-Bay model but the much beefier pro model. My only concern though is my strut spring coils are so close together that the hooks might not fit between them (Acura Legend),also the spring diameter is less than 4" which is a little less than spec'd by the manufacturer. I've done alot of browsing on this (Compressing Strut Springs) and most cars have much wider coils w/coils further apart but these narrow Legend/Honda springs w/tight coils seem dangerous to compress especially w/those 2 piece 1 on ea. side types. I'm still debating.....
muskaman67
Well-known member
- Joined
- Jun 6, 2008
- Messages
- 290
i have the same one that ImportTuner and used it on plenty of asian cars. I've used it prob 20 times in my drive way lowering friends cars and it works great. Never had an issue with it or it sliding off. Just make sure to have them on opposite sides and it works great.
Nitroinsane
Well-known member
- Joined
- Mar 24, 2013
- Messages
- 73
I bought these for at home repair. I still can't believe how well they work.
fourtythree
Well-known member
I've been using the autozone set for years. Best cheap spring compressors out there as far as I'm concerned.
Stooge
Well-known member
does anyone use the otc 6494 clamshell type?, just looking to upgrade/ add to from the otc twin screw style ive had, nothing wrong with them, just have always been a little uneasy about using that style. price isnt too bad through tooltopia, but other than amazon, having trouble finding people with first hand experience. looks like the same version mac and matco rebrand, although from Mac's website they dont even bother removing the otc sticker, (6494 has the same specs as the 7560 from what i can tell)
http://www.tooltopia.com/otc-tools-6494.aspx
http://www.mactools.com/ShopOnline/Product/tabid/120/productid/319582/variantid/310341/Default.aspx
http://www.tooltopia.com/otc-tools-6494.aspx
http://www.mactools.com/ShopOnline/Product/tabid/120/productid/319582/variantid/310341/Default.aspx