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6112 install without a spring compressor?

Discussion in 'Suspension' started by glock24, Aug 31, 2015.

  1. Aug 31, 2015 at 4:29 PM
    #1
    glock24

    glock24 [OP] Well-Known Member

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    What do you guys think? I've seen it done with 5100s and 885 coils, but is the 6112 a different enough beast that it isn't as easy for the DIYer?

    And yes, I understand this is a potentially dangerous proposition. If my question upsets you, just consider it hypothetical.

    Thank you
     
  2. Aug 31, 2015 at 5:18 PM
    #2
    eltaco

    eltaco Well-Known Member

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    I'll let you know in a couple of days, because I'm about to attempt this on my own. Seems to be of similar, if not lower danger-level to the manual spring tensioners, though!
     
  3. Aug 31, 2015 at 6:03 PM
    #3
    glock24

    glock24 [OP] Well-Known Member

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    Thanks. I would really appreciate your insight. My 6112s won't arrive for another week or so.

    Good luck
     
  4. Aug 31, 2015 at 6:11 PM
    #4
    TacoDeLaPlaya

    TacoDeLaPlaya Total Automotive Performance Sleeper Cell

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    Custom sotoshi deep dish grill 6112 front 5100 rear Leer 100xl
    I think this method is safer than compressors as well. On the 3rd setting mine went together easily. Need 2 people or its a real bitch getting it lined up.
     
  5. Sep 9, 2015 at 12:35 PM
    #5
    eltaco

    eltaco Well-Known Member

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    I installed my passenger side 6112 last night, solo, but it was nothing short of a PITA. I put a 1/4" top plate spacer on, which added to the difficulty, I suppose. I ended up using a ratchet strap to pull my LCA down, as it didn't want to move down without springing back up. Once I finally got the bottom shock mount lined up and mounted, compressing the spring was an absolute non-issue. I simply jacked until the stem was about to go through the upper mount hole and pushed the coil assembly in while I hit the jack another time... after that was lined up I just jacked it in and bolted all my connections back up.

    I'll be honest, there was a point in the process that I thought... "man, I wish I had those spring compressors handy."
     
  6. Sep 9, 2015 at 10:54 PM
    #6
    eltaco

    eltaco Well-Known Member

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    Drivers side went much more smoothly tonight. For whatever reason, my LCA dropped out of the way when I loosened all the bolts tonight... The passenger side wasn't as friendly. With that out of the way it was a very simple job. I see no concerns with compressing the spring this way and in fact found it safer than the little compressor clamps.

    FWIW, I set my clips in the 4th groove. Even if you go with the 5th I don't believe you'll have an issue. Good luck!

    These struts are hilariously fun, btw...
     

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