I've removed the springs on two of my third gens with out spring compressors, just with a floor jack, and I had no issues. I'm going to be doing suspension on my 4th gen soon and I was wondering if I needed a spring compressor for it, I know the front the suspension is different, and I really don't want to kill myself, I want to be able to drive the car afterwards.
Thanks for the help.

 

I think you're going to have to have some way to compress the spring to get the shock apart.

 

You can remove the spring/shock assemblies and take them down to a shop to have the parts swapped; around $40 - $50. You can also buy a set of spring compressors (threaded style) and do the complete swap in your garage. I've done it both ways; the trick with the threaded style compressors is to keep the threads well lubricated with thick grease.

 

Thanks for the help, depending on how cheap the spring compressor is, I'll probably do it all myself.

 

I installed Sportlines on the front of my '98 in my garage. I went to Autozone and rented a spring compressor kit. It was like $40, but there was no time limit and when I took it back, I got my $$ back. Just keep your receipt.

 

I used a Lisle PN 62300 McPherson Strut Tool. The instructions specifically mention it is NOT for spring removal, but I like the design. The clips actually u-bolt to the spring coils, so they can’t pop off, and can’t start to slip around the spring coils. Doesn't cost much more than a rental, and I've done a few more seperations for friends, and loaned it out a couple times.

I have a painfully detailed "how to" on the spring/shock swap for the 4th Gens:

http://members.aol.com/InjuneerZZ/HALEibch.htm

 

I used Injuneer's instructions for both front and rear shock/spring swaps. They were very helpful. Thanks, Fred!