Any pointers on how to install these new springs on my 64 ford fairlane,I tried one of those little door spring compressor tools without success.thanks ahead for any help Jim
Remove the hinges and try to do this on the bench. Your spring compressor might work better with the hinge off. Another way, you might be able to collapse the spring and use heavy wire to restrain it and then install the spring; which then you would be able to cut the wire to release the spring.
I used the spring tool on my 63 fairlane, and lots of other cars. Took a couple times, but the only way I think. I wouldn't take off my doors if I didn't have to, scratches and realignments aren't fun. I've used a spring tool for years and it was never easy.
Compress them in a bench vise, tie em up with PLENTY of wire(I use welding wire). Once in place cut the wire with a pair of ****s. Be careful tho, there's alot of tension on these things when compressed. Posted using the Full Custom H.A.M.B. App!
I pop them out with a large screwdriver. To install put the tool on the spring and use a vice to compress and then tighten the tool, seems to compress the spring more this way.
Lowdownfab is on the right track. I installed a spring in my '69 Camaro the same way. Place the spring in a vice and compress it. You have to use a lot of wire because I found that the wire wants to move around the spring. Get it in place and cut the wire but hold it in place with a pair of channel locks.
Someone mentioned the possibility of scratching the when taking it off. You don't have to take the door off, protect it a little with some cardboard, open the door and block it up and then take the bottom hinge off.
If you use the tool right it works fine, been using mine for the past 25 years with no problems. Wait till you guys that use a vise loose that spring when under tension and take it in the face, you will think twice before doing it again.
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