h&r springs install / tools

I went with this to cover all bases
TEKTON 4885 1/2" Drive Deep Impact Socket Set, 11-32mm, Metric, Cr-V, 14 Sockets:Amazon:Home Improvement

I also rented the free spring compressor from autozone, worked fine

FWIW: I hate my H&R springs. While the ride height is perfect... the ride sucks. I've had my fair share of lowered cars on various springs, this is my first H&R kit. It feels like the spring rates between front and rear are different.

WHEN I feel up to it, I'll be swapping them for eibach

 

When going over any dip in the road at speed, the front feels like a low car with weak springs while the back feels tight and predictable. The front feels lousy to me, almost like I cut the factory springs.

I bought the H&Rs here from another member. They were brand new and never installed. They weren't my first choice but it was a good deal. In retrospect I should have gone with new Eibachs for a few dollars more.

Many others compliment the Eibach ride quality but dont like ride height. After 5k mi on the HR, I'll deal with less than optimal ride height for a high quality ride feel.

 

I thought Eibach owned H&R?

 

Here's a couple links to threads that I used for my spring install. Kudos had to be given to Hawaiian Built and Andino, these threads offer step by step details..

TANABE SUSTEC Strut Tower Bar & Under Brace DIY Installation PIX !!! | PriusChat

DIY: Spring Install | PriusChat

I had a hard time with the Harbor Freight compressor on the front struts so I took them down to my mechanic and he swapped the springs on his bench for me for $40.

iPhone ?

 

No matter how much I compressed, I could never decrease the tension on the top plate and I was too nervous about taking the strut apart and shooting it across my garage. I couldn't believe the spring would compress in the middle inside the tool but not outside of it. I combined blame between a cheap tool and my fear.


iPhone ?