Just got all new bushings installed on the front control arms of my 79 Camaro. I am trying to get all the pieces back on the car and have realized that I can't install the springs back into the control arms (not enough clearance). The manual says to use a floor jack and lift the lower arm with the spring in it, but I don't see how this will work without lifting the car off the ground. It took alot of pounding w/a deadblow hammer just to get the lower arms back in and I don't want to remove them again. Any recommendations on how to re-install the front springs???

 

That way's kinda dangerous. It'll work, but I wouldn't feel to comfortable doing it that way now that I have more sense than *****.
Rent a coil spring compressor from Checkers, it'll make your job easier and safer.

 

you need a spring compessor. Be careful with it, it can be dangerous.

Autozone has them for rent.

 

I've done it 2 ways..

1)Spring Compressor, the best/easiest way to do it.. It's basically a big clamp that you can tighten with a wrench.

2)Drop the control arm on 1 side, put the spring in place, run a heavy duty chain down the center of the control arm and spring (close it), then use a jack to push the control arm back up. .it will compress the spring and you can bolt the control arm up.. the chain will keep the spring from flying across the room and hitting somebody.

 

You can do it that way, just take your time and don't get in a rush. The weight of the vehicle will be enough to compress the spring.