How do you swap Kings springs ?

Has anyone tried swapping out Kings front struts springs to a different one ? Mine came with 550lbs and would like to replace it with 600lbs or even 650lbs. Reason being, I’ll be adding the C4 low pro bumper.

Okay so here’s my issue. I’ve tried the conventional spring compressor and as well as this Amazon stand up spring compressor with no luck. The problem I’m having is that kings threaded body sits really close to the inner part of the coil.

When I tried the standard spring compressor, the clamps has two issues. First issue, the clamp itself hits the thread body and does not allow the clamp to sit fully. Second issue is the safety does not clear the king spring.



The amazon stand up compressor almost works. But the issue is the clamps designed to hold the springs is not the correct diameter. So when you try to compress it, the spring leans to an angle. Now at these angles the the clamps contact the kings thread body. I have a few deep scratches in the threads because of this angle issue. But fortunately, the damaged threads are much lower then the collar.



So I continued to search on what other tools can be used. Only other thing I’ve seen on some YouTube videos is this machine Barnick 7600. This tool looks very nice and has so much adjustability. But not sure I would use it enough for the price, $700.


I reached out to a few 4x4 shops in my area and they want $200+ to swap springs (hand carry struts). Really ?

So what I want to know, what do you guys do? how do you swap springs ? Do I pay the $200 to have a shop do it ?

 

The barnick compressor is what most shops have. They work extremely well from my experience using them.

If you can get the compressor you own adjusted so it is mostly on the lower portion of the spring (to avoid gauling the threads where adjustments are made), all you have to do is compress enough to get the bottom spring seat to slide out. Boom.... you coilover is now apart.

 

i tried this a few times. even though the damaged threads is not in the adjustment range, it looks really bad. i hate destroying the threads just to remove the coils.

But another member recommended this tool. from the pictures i've seen in the reviews, it plays nice with threaded bodies and king springs. i've ordered it and will give it a try.

Shankly Spring Compressor Tool (2 Pieces) - Heavy Duty Build, Ultra Rugged Coil Spring Compressor, Strong and Durable Spring Compressor with Safety Guard and Carrying Case

$65 Shankly Spring Compressor Tool - 2200 Lbs - Extra Strength, Heavy Duty Build, Ultra-Rugged Coil Spring Compressor Tool or Strut Spring Compressor Strong and Durable ATV Spring Compressor Tool

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071DQJG24/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_2y48FbA3SQR0P

 

I'm surprised the shop was going to charge $200.

Its a quick job if they got the Barnick.

 

yes was thinking same thing, but that’s what they are asking :-(

 

Just wanted to report back. The Shankly compressor was perfect and did a great job. Didn’t even come close to touching the threaded body.