Coilover Install Methods

I’m planning on ordering a headstrong kit soon and I’ve been doing a little research on the install. I’ve read a thread and watched a YouTube video and they seem to do the job differently.

The thread said to remove the UCA balljoint and push out of the way, while another member commented that they usually just remove the UCA from the mounting bolts instead.

Then in the YouTube video they removed the LCA ball joint and lowered that out of the way and didn’t touch the UCA. Also, in this method they used a jack and the trucks weight to compress the springs which would save me a few bucks to have them assembled. I could also use this method to remove/replace as an assembly.

Any opinions on these methods? Is one better than the other or is just preference? Does any method result in a required realignment? Any input is greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

 

I've had my suspension apart twice now and this week will be #3 when I install my new coilovers. I've always undone the UCA ball joint / uniball and just moved it out of the way. It's worked for me. I've never done the LCA method.

 

This may be a silly question, but that still would require an alignment correct? I have no problem getting one, but don’t want to unnecessarily.

 

To get the most even wear out of your tires yes.

 

I’ve done both methods as describe and prefer the UCA Balljoint to be removed out of the spindle for easier handling of your Shocks/coilovers if they are preassembled.

I only use the LCA method if I don’t have the shocks preassembled or a actual coil spring compressor on hand.

 

How sketchy was it compressing with a floor jack? When lowering the truck sometimes with my jack it will be a little tough when releasing pressure and then all the sudden break free and drop it 3 inches real quick and I wouldn’t want it doing that with a loose spring.. yikes

 

Not sketchy in on my end tbh. What floorjack do you use? The HF one isnt to bad and if you "finess" the handle it should drop to harshly. Plus considering the LCA and shock are under pressure it works out with that method imo.

 

Ah right on. I have a Craftsman 3-ton from Sears. I’m thinking I’ll order them pre assembled at least this time around and do the UCA method.

 

That would be your best bet! Marie & Robert @HeadStrong Off-Road are great and will take care of you.

 

I've never done the lca method but out of what OP presented....my advice is to order the stuff preassembled (yes, extra $ but worth it) and do it the uca bj bolt removal way.

IMHO, the uca mount way isnt really suggest because you'll spend extra time wrestling to get the bolt extracted.....unless you have already gone aftermarket uca and know what's involved.

Youll need an alignment if you change ride height because of the new coilovers.....usually not because the install was done the uca bolt way.

 

Very good info/advice. All makes sense. Thank you! I’m going to go the UCA method with assembled coilovers.

 

Thank you so much Mr @Bot_Chu

 

Anytime need to visit soon :3