installing front coil springs 396/375 nova

1968 nova ss · #1 08-07-2009, 04:50 AM

guys,looking for some ideas on how to install these new big block front coil springs in a 68 nova clip.i have used a few spring compressor ,but they would only tighten the spring up a few inches.the clip presently is off the car with no motor in it.any ideas ?i could always drop in the completed 396 motor ,before it goes to the dyno and pull it back out.Or is their a better type of spring compressor.with no motor in the car presently ,the top and bottom a frames would have to be pulled pretty tight together to get the spindle on.any help or ideas appreciated.chris

68z28kk · #2 08-07-2009, 05:19 AM

I sent you an email. Clint

1968 nova ss · #3 08-08-2009, 05:10 AM

clint,resend your Pm;didn;t get it.anybody else have any ideas.Chris

VintageMusclecar · #4 08-08-2009, 06:11 AM

What style of coil spring compressor are you using?

68z28kk · #5 08-08-2009, 10:43 AM

I will send you an email tomorrow about a simple tool to safely install coil springs without needing the weight of your engine to help in the process. And it's a one man operation and so simple. I will email it because I have pictures and don't know how to post them on this site. Clint

1968 nova ss · #6 08-08-2009, 03:06 PM

thanks clint;that would be great.eric,i am using a napa brand spring compressor by evercraft and have tried a rental from our local advance auto parts.they both seem to be sturdy units;but maybe not sturdy enough.chris

indyjps · #7 08-08-2009, 06:56 PM

Ive used spring compressors similar to the Napa brand on 600 lb front springs for 69 camaro, these are much stiffer than a standard big block spring. Make sure its a quality unit, the hooks that go onto the spring need to be steel, not a cheap casting as some of the knock off brands use, also the threaded rod that goes thru the middle of the compressor and the nut are in good condition.

68z28kk, Im interested in tool you have, can you give more details?