I need to install new ball joints and bushings on my 70 Chevelle. The engine is out, so I don't have the advantage of using it's weight ..... when removing and reinstalling the coil springs. I have done this before, using engine weight as an aid.

In the 70' Chassis Service Manual, it shows their proceedure, which involves using GM tool J-22739 mounted to a floor jack. It cradles the LCA bushings, and the A arm is lowered from that point, once the bolts are removed. Ball joint then removed from spindle. Looks like I could make one, if needed.

If there's a way, that does not involve fabrication, ... I'm all ears. Thanks

get this http://www.eastwoodco.com/jump.jsp?itemID=2454&itemType=PRODUCT

be safe

get this http://www.eastwoodco.com/jump.jsp?itemID=2454&itemType=PRODUCT

be safe

Andyo:

Have you used this Eastwood or similar spring compressor, on a 68-72? I doubt if I have enough clearance towards top of the spring, ...where it goes through it's hole in the frame.
Or, ...am I wrong? Thanks

Try (sorry) autozone.com, or another cheesy auto parts store, for spring compressors (you pay for them, but get refunded when returned), get some goggles, face shield, etc.

Search for the different types of spring compressors, etc. before (shudder) making your own. Its not so bad with jack under the control arm if you know what you're doing or look where the force will go with the engine in, but with it out, hmmm...

That said, I've taken spindles off a scap car with little under the lower control arm, but I was scared til that ball joint popped.

A spring in the face will leave a mark!

Do a search, this has been discussed several times. The easiest one I remember was to wrap a heavy chain around the front axle on the floor jack and loop it over the frame. As you jack up the LCA the chain holds down on the frame.

I bought one from napa, then I had to cut an inch or so off the end of the threaded rod for my 69. Don't use a impact on them, you will monkey up the threads, also wrap a chain around it in case it lets loose.

Rob

I followed this procedure...

http://216.178.81.108/forums/showthread.php?t=386527&highlight=coil+spring+install

david

get this http://www.eastwoodco.com/jump.jsp?itemID=2454&itemType=PRODUCT

be safe

Mount prospect, huh? I live near Busse and Golf.

I used this tool to remove my springs. For the life of me, I could not get the rod to go through the shock hole. Instead, I inserted only one claw into the spring while the other seated on the bottom of the control arm. I compressed the spring onto the LCA. I would imagine this would work for installation as well.

I went with circle track springs, so installation was a breeze.

I just did it with the engine and transmission out. I got a compressor from Auto Zone and compressed the he#% out of the spring. I inserted it through the spindle end (book says to do it on the bushing end) and worked the A-Arm up to where the ball joint stud could be threaded. Make sure the spring bottom seats in the right place. After I secured the ball joints I released the spring tension and worked the lower end of the compressor out of the spring coils.
I used a jack to help me lift the a-arm but I also sat on the frame so my 200lbs could help get the ball joint in position.
BTW... I did use an impact to compress the spring. The threads of the tool were fine but the hex end of the compressor was wearing. Being a loaner tool I took it back, got a refund, showed them the wear and they ordered another one.

use a spring compressor, autozone, 50 bucks refundable. just installed front springs last night. No engine ,tranny, fenders, shell. Just a frame

I just got a pizza and a couple of fat friends to sit on the frame... seriously haha. worked like a charm

If you get to the point of taking any of your suspension parts off, remember to leave your bolts a little loose when you re-connect everything. Once the full weight is back on the suspension, tighten everything up. Might want to leave a note with your car keys if you leave stuff loose, though. ;)

I just got a pizza and a couple of fat friends to sit on the frame... seriously haha. worked like a charm


Wow, how much did the pizza weigh? :D