Spring Compressor: The Ultimate FAQ Guide

You’re most likely looking for high quality and a durable spring compressor.

Or, you would like to learn more about spring compressors.

Whichever the case, this guide has all information you’re looking for – keep reading.

What is a Spring Compressor?

A spring compressor is a tool used in fixing car suspension problems.

It is an essential auto repair tool and minimizes the dangers associated with removing car springs.

The purpose of a spring compressor is extracting car springs and also compressing them.

Figure 1 Spring compressor

Are Spring Compressors Safe?

Yes, spring compressors are safe to use, they are produced for use because of safety purposes.

Spring compressors are used in removing springs or coils from a vehicle.

These coils are always under immense pressure and removing them without a spring compressor can lead to accidents even fatalities.

Spring compressors hold the springs in place so that they don’t recoil and cause injuries.

Some of the safety measures to be applied when using a spring compressor include:

• Always use a spring compressor in any work involving removing, repair, or installation of a spring coil.
• Use quality spring compressors from trusted manufacturers.
• Make sure that the coil spring compressor fits the springs you are working with. This is to avoid the springs from sliding off the spring compressor.
• Wear proper personal protective equipment when working with a spring compressor to avoid accidents leading to injuries.
• Ensure the area around you is free from traffic when using a spring compressor. This is to avoid accidents in case a spring compressor snaps.
• Keep a compressed spring as far as possible from your body.
• Do not let a compressed spring sit for long hours. Do your work in a timely fashion and as long as the work duration.
• Always compress your springs in the recommended compressions. This is to avoid over-compression which can lead to accidents.
• Always compress your spring manually to evenly distribute force across your spring.
• In the process of compressing your spring coil, watch for slipping or cracks in both the coil spring and the spring compressor.
• After compressing your spring, do not hold or secure it with any other equipment other than a spring compressor.

What is a Spring Compressor Used for?

A spring compressor is used to remove, repair or reinstall car spring coils.

Car spring coils are the parts of a vehicle that support it and absorb impact while keeping the vehicle off the ground.

Vehicle coil springs are under immense pressure and removing them without the proper tools can cause serious injuries or even death when the springs recoil.

To avoid this, a spring compressor is used to compress the coil springs and hold them in place.

How do you Compress a Spring with a Spring Compressor?

Spring compressors come in different sizes and depend mainly on the type and size of the coils springs to be used with the spring compressors.

Basic steps of using a spring compressor involve:

1. Purchasing a spring compressor tool kit: the first step is buying or getting a spring compressor that meets all the safety standards and from a reputable supplier or manufacturer.
2. Before starting, check that all the parts for any wear or tear. Do not use a spring compressor that has any missing part or is broken.
3. Jack up your vehicle before setting up the spring compressor. Jacking the vehicle loosens the vehicle spring coils so that they can be removed, repaired or reinstalled.
4. Remove the vehicle tire so that you can reach the coil spring.in some vehicles, you may need to remove extra parts to reach the coil springs.
5. Always consult the vehicles and spring compressor before usage.
6. Slide the compressor rod through the end of the clamp.
7. Place the strut into the mount: the strut holds the spring into place.
8. Align the spring hooks and ensure they fit correctly to the spring compressor.
9. Attach the clamp to the coil using the safety pin. The safety pin holds the clamp into place so that it does not slide when compressing the vehicle spring.
10. Pump the foot-operated lever to achieve the required compression.
11. Compress the spring until the coils are close but not touching.
12. Lastly, disconnect the compressor by loosening the strut from the mount.

How do you use a Spring Compressor Safely?

Some of the safety procedures that should be observed when using a spring compressor include:

• Before using spring compressors ensure that the workplace is clean and the floor is even.
• Ensure that you read the manufacturer’s manual and that your handstand the usage of the spring compressor.
• Do a safety check before using a spring compressor, check the strut, bolts and hydraulic cylinder for any damages.
• Wear appropriate PPE and keep hands away from moving parts.
• Ensure your work area is clean, has adequate lighting, and free from unnecessary traffic.
• Always have a helping hand at hand just in case you require extra help.
• Familiarity causes accidents, be aware of your work area, and always concentrate on what you are doing.
• Do not make any modifications to your spring compressor.
• Follow the manufacturer’s manual in case of any repairs to your spring compressor.
• Replacement parts for your spring compressor should be the ones recommended by the manufacturer.

What are the Types of Spring Compressors?

There are different types of spring compressors available in the market and they all accomplish the same task. Some of the available spring compressors include:

1. External spring compressors: usually used where there is an obstruction to the center of the spring. These are mainly used in the strut-type configuration.

External spring compressors usually come with c-shaped clamps which are tightened with wrenches to load the spring.

1. Internal spring compressor: this is usually used where there is no obstruction to the center of the spring. When using this type of spring compressor, make sure the arms are evenly spaced.

• Klann-type spring compressor: this is a type of spring compressor that involves plates and a telescoping jack-shaft. This type of spring compressor is ideal for high tension spring applications.

How much do Spring Compressors Cost?

Spring compressors vary in price from one manufacturer to the other depending on the ton, how it is powered, and operated.

Yoke travel, spring size, and spring length a spring compressor can support also determines its price.

Putting the above factors into consideration, spring compressor prizes can range from $40 to as high as $250 apiece.

What are the Features of Spring Compressors?

Different spring compressors have different features. Some of these features include:

• Supporting springs up to 1 ton.
• Supporting springs up to 350mm in diameter.
• Can support springs up to 240 mm long.
• Delivering yoke travel to 340mm.
• Most are hydraulic powered
• Foot-operated.

How Dangerous are Spring Compressors?

Spring compressors can be extremely dangerous if operated incorrectly.

A spring on a spring compressor can slip or snap and cause serious injuries even death.

To safely operate your spring compressor, always ensure that:

• You read the operator’s manual and understand how to operate the spring compressor.
• Carry out safety checks on your spring compressor before and after every use.
• Always make sure that the hydraulic oil is refilled, clean, and free from any leakages.
• Wear the correct personal protective gear when operating a spring compressor.
• Ensure your work area is clean.
• If you don’t feel comfortable operating your spring compressor, seek help from a qualified person.
• Use the correct tools correctly when operating your spring compressor.

How do you Maintain Spring Compressors?

A spring compressor can be a dangerous tool when mishandled, not maintained, or stored incorrectly. Maintain your spring compressor correctly by:

• Inspecting your spring compressor before and after every use to ensure all parts are secure and undamaged.
• Maintain your spring compressor in a clean condition at all times and grease all the parts requiring greasing.
• Oil all the parts that require oiling by following the manufacturer’s maintenance manual.
• Check the hydraulic cylinder for leakages and refill or change the hydraulic oil following the manufacture’s procedure.

The following easy steps should be followed in changing or refilling the hydraulic cylinder:

1. Place a rag or old newspapers beneath the cylinder to catch any overflowing hydraulic oil.
2. Remove the fill plug out of its hole in the cylinder and put it in a clean safe place.

• Drain the hydraulic fluid and dispose of it safely following the manufacturers’ disposal manual.

1. Fill new and clean hydraulic oil in a clean can to refill the hydraulic cylinder.
2. Fill the hydraulic cylinder to the bream and let the hydraulic oil overflow and settle.
3. Raise the hoist to its maximum height, open the cylinder release valve, and put the hoist back to its lowest position. This will release the excess air from the cylinder.

• Double-check the oil level and add more if necessary. When filled, reinsert the oil fill plug.

What is the Best Coil Spring Compressor to Buy?

With many types of spring compressors in the market, it is essential to be aware of the different aspects to look in a spring compressor.

To get the best spring compressor you should check on qualities such as:

• Material: the spring compressor should be made from the highest quality and durable material such as steel. The material should be able to withstand highly compressed pressure and last long.
• Size: when choosing a strut spring compressor, choose the correct size that fits your vehicle’s spring coils.
• Safety: choose a spring compressor that is safe to use and which you have an understanding of its usage.
• Power: a hydraulic-powered spring compressor is safer than a manual one.
• Budget: buy a spring compressor that fits your budget keeping in mind a cheaper spring compressor is made of cheap materials.

What are the Components of a Spring Compressor?

Spring compressors come with different components depending on the manufacturer.

Some of the components of a spring compressor include:

1. Main column: this is the part that supports the clamping brackets into place.
2. Upper clamping bracket: these are used for holding the vehicle spring into positions so that it can be compressed. They hold the upper part of the springs.
3. Base: supports all the components. It should be firm and some manufacturers recommend it be bolted on to the ground.
4. Hydraulic cylinder ram: this gives the spring compressor the hydraulic power to compress springs
5. Foot pedal: used for pumping the hydraulic cylinder.
6. Nuts, bolts, and washers: uses to secure the clamping brackets into place.
7. Lower support bracket: these hold the lower part of the springs.

What are the Best Strut Spring Compressors to Buy?

Some of the best strut spring compressors in the market you should look for having the following features:

1. All-steel construction, 98 pounds with one year warranty
2. Steel construction.

• Metal construction.

1. Wood surface and steel frame.
2. Carbon steel construction.
3. Equipped for heavy-duty use

• Come with multi-position hooks.
• Require no adapters.

1. One person operation

How can you Test the Quality of the Spring Compressor?

You can test the quality of your spring compressor by:

• Lowering the ram to its lowest position by pressing and holding down the foot pedal.
• Sliding the strut of the spring assembly into the lower bracket and clamping it.
• Positioning the upper bracket so that it is aligned with the lower bracket.
• Once the brackets are secured on the main column, pump the cylinder using the foot pedal.
• Check if the lower bracket is moving.
• Repeat the process with a smaller vehicle spring.
• Check that all components are working and that there are no strains, broken parts, or leakages.
• Reassemble your spring compressor in the reverse order if satisfied with the test.

Can you Replace One Coil using Spring Compressor?

Yes, you can replace just one coil spring with your spring compressor.

Follow these easy steps in replacing your coil spring.

• Jack up your vehicle before setting up the spring compressor. Jacking the vehicle loosens the vehicle spring coils so that they can be removed, repaired or reinstalled.
• Remove the vehicle tire so that you can reach the coil spring.in some vehicles, you may need to remove extra parts to reach the coil springs.
• Always consult the vehicles and spring compressor before usage.
• Slide the compressor rod through the end of the clamp.
• Place the strut into the mount: the strut holds the spring into place.
• Align the spring hooks and ensure they fit correctly to the spring compressor.
• Attach the clamp to the coil using the safety pin. The safety pin holds the clamp into place so that it does not slide when compressing the vehicle spring.
• Pump the foot-operated lever to achieve the required compression.
• Compress the spring until the coils are close but not touching.

How do you Replace the Spring Compressor?

A spring compressor should be replaced if it shows signs of wear and tear.

The following should be observed and will necessitate replacing your spring compressor.

• The main column: look for cracks or missing components.
• Upper clamping bracket: a loose upper clamping bracket or one that does not fit to the main column will necessitate replacing the spring compressor.
• Base: look for cracks or unevenness.
• Hydraulic cylinder/ram: look for cracks, leakages that cannot be fixed or mixing components.
• Foot pedal: look for cracks, looseness, or broken pieces.
• Nuts, bolts, and washers: if missing any bolts, nuts or washers replace them.
• Lower support bracket: if a lower bracket is loose, broken, or cracked replace the spring compressor.

How Long does it take Spring Compressor to Wear Out?

A spring compressor will last as long as you take care of it.

Carry out maintenance on your spring compressor following the manufacturer’s manual.

Ensure that you routinely refill and change the hydraulic oil and that you store your spring compressor in recommended storage.

Also grease and oil all the necessary components that require oiling and greasing.

By following the above maintenance procedures, you will increase the shelf life of your spring compressor.

What Causes Spring Compressors to Break?

Improper usage, coiling and lack of maintenance are some of the factors that may cause your spring compressor to break.

Always follow the manufacture’s procedures and manual on the proper use of your spring compressor.

Do you need a Spring Compressor to Install Lowering Springs?

No, you do not need to install lowering springs using a spring compressor because the spring is not compressed that much.

It will be prudent to use a spring compressor to make work easier and safe.

Do you need Spring Compressors to Fit Coil Covers?

No, you don’t need a spring compressor to fill the coil cover because coil covers come fully assembled.

You should always use a spring compressor on its intended purposes failure to which major accidents can occur leading to death.

What are the Pros and Cons of Spring Compressors?

The pros of spring compressors include:

• Spring compressors are important tools in the garage or even working with at home.
• Some come with multi-position hooks for added safety.
• Some strut spring compressors require no adapters to use them.
• Study acme threads make it easy to use strut spring compressors.
• Most work on different types of vehicles.
• Are adjustable for use in different types and sizes of springs.
• They require just one person to operate.

Some of the cons of spring compressors include:

• Some types of spring compressors are expensive.
• Some have short stands which are uncomfortable to use.
• Some spring compressors are not adjustable.
• If mishandled spring compressors can be very dangerous even causing death.
• Some spring compressors in the market are not equipped for light work.

As you can see, you need to consider a number of factors before choosing spring compressors.

At Passca Tools, we give you high quality and reliable spring compressors – contact us now.