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Thread: Advice on suspension problems

  1. #1
    Oil Changer jdawg's Avatar
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    Default Advice on suspension problems

    Hi all! I received some new coil-overs for my NA as a gift. Changing out the rear has been no problem, but I have a big problem on the front. When I attempted to loosen (not remove) the nut holding the shock to the tophat (middle bolt) it broke off the nut and bolt. I can't seem to get the strut spring clamp/s mounted because of limited space in the wheel well.
    Do any of you have any suggestions on how I can safely remove the strut\spring?

    Thanks!!
    Justin

  2. #2

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    Maybe wrap the spring as well as you can in a thick blanket and slowly release the tension? It's not a good spot to be in.

  3. #3
    Oil Changer jdawg's Avatar
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    I have seen a video where a guy put a bunch of big zip ties on the spring. I have also seen videos of people using small lengths of chain to "clamp" the spring down. Both ideas worked, but I thought I had better ask around first.
    You are right...not a good spot to be in.

  4. #4
    Team Cheap Bastard
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    sammm's Avatar
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    The chain sounds like a good idea...much better than a blanket or zip ties.

    Not even enough room for 1 spring compressor?

  5. #5

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    cant you rent one out in autonzone?

  6. #6

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    I'd either do lots of zip ties or several hose clamps. The hose clamps may let you compress the spring some more. Be careful though! That's a lot of stored energy.
    ...and across the line.

    1996 Mazda Miata - R-Package (Eve-L)
    2012 Mazda CX-9 - Grand Touring (Dory)




  7. #7
    Mr Miata Solutions Rogue's Avatar
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    Zip Ties! Y'all are going to get someone killed.

    Jack up on the control arm, remove the lower ball joint and slowly let out the tension from the spring.
    the tension should be almost out before the shaft is free.
    I would also have a strap from spring around the lower control arm, but not too tight.
    make sure the sway is off too.

    keep your distance and jack it from the front of the car.

    This is a dangerous situation without experience.
    I have done a bunch (not just these puny Miata springs either) and it always makes me nervous.
    Be Careful!

  8. #8

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    Quote Originally Posted by Rogue View Post
    Zip Ties! Y'all are going to get someone killed.
    Duct Tape?
    ...and across the line.

    1996 Mazda Miata - R-Package (Eve-L)
    2012 Mazda CX-9 - Grand Touring (Dory)




  9. #9

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    So, how'd it go? Any trips to the ER?

  10. #10
    Oil Changer jdawg's Avatar
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    No trips to the ER....yet. I hope to find the time to try it out tonight. Got the straps, blanket, zip ties, chains and duct tape ready to go!

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