Help!!!

[jiminbmth]

trying to replace the front springs on my 1.4 petrol!just done the back on my tod but looking at it,the front looks a little more tricky!!!
any suggestions ? havent got spring clamps either!wots the best way to do this,as I need to do this urgently as front 1 went bang!and makes creeking noise when i try and drive it!

 

[Lee S]

havent got spring clamps either!!

I don't think this job is possible without them to be honest. Halfords or Motorworld probably sell them. I had a Draper set I used many moons ago. I doubt they are very expensive.

I need to do this urgently as front 1 went bang!and makes creeking noise when i try and drive it!

Mine was like this for 4 weeks until I got all the parts together to repair it. As long as the spring doesn't pop out of the seat it should be OK. Well... Mine lasted as I said... YMMV. Best to get it done ASAP, but it should be OK until you get some spring compressors.

 

[dan_b]

Definitely you'll need spring compressors for the front ones, unless you've the arm strength of a horse!

 

[jiminbmth]

guess i have arms like a horse!
done it!!!

 

[spartacus 68]

Job can't be done without spring compressors. Did this job a forthnight ago on my wife's A2 1.4TDi (passenger side).

Used Draper spring compressors which are relatively inexpensive and straight forward to use.

Purchased a top bearing too as inevitably the bearing will be worn or dry and needs replaced at the same time.

Straight forward to do - if you've done this type of job before. I released the lower balljoint and tie-rod for greater access, but it can be done without disconnecting the tie-rod.

Only note of attention - is to take it easy on the allen key thread on the suspension strut and the tie-rod as they're very easy to strip, especially if you're using brute force. Take your time and lubricate with Duck-oil release, leave 20 minutes, before attempting to remove. To line up the drop-link after reassembly, use a scissor jack. Also handy for forcing the strut through the wing aperture when refitting.

See earlier thread with link to PDF (in German) but you'll get the jist!

http://www.a2oc.net/forum/showthread.php?t=5497&page=4