How to Install Lowering Springs
Lowering springs are a popular modification for car enthusiasts looking to achieve a sleeker appearance, as well as improved handling and overall performance. This guide will walk you through the process of installing lowering springs on your vehicle.
Before starting, it’s important to note that professional installation is recommended for this modification. However, if you have the necessary tools, skillset, and confidence, this guide will help you through the process.
Step 1: Gather the necessary tools
To install lowering springs, you will need the following tools:
– Jack and jack stands
– Wheel chocks
– Wrench set
– Spring compressors
– Pry bar
– Hammer
– Punch
Step 2: Prepare your vehicle
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
2. Place wheel chocks in front of and behind the wheels to ensure stability.
3. Loosen the lug nuts on each tire without fully removing them.
Step 3: Jack up the car and secure on jack stands
1. Place the jack under the vehicle, lining it up with the designated jacking points.
2. Lift one end of the car at a time, placing jack stands underneath for support.
Step 4: Remove tires
1. Now that your car is safely secured, remove all lug nuts from each tire and take off each wheel.
Step 5: Remove factory suspensions
Remember to do one corner of your vehicle at a time.
1. Locate the shock absorber and attach the spring compressor to relieve pressure from the spring assembly.
2. With wrenches (or other necessary tools), disconnect any bolts securing the strut assembly and sway bar links.
3. Carefully remove any mounting hardware connecting the strut assembly to your vehicle.
4. Lower down and detach any remaining attachments before removing the strut assembly from your vehicle.
Step 6: Prepare and install the lowering springs
1. Returning to the strut assembly, compress the spring with the spring compressor tool.
2. Remove the upper strut mounts and other related components.
3. Decompress and remove the factory springs.
4. Compare your lowering springs to the stock springs, making note of any differences in height or shape.
5. Transfer any necessary hardware from the factory springs to the lowering springs.
6. Compress your lowering springs using a spring compressor.
7. Reattach any upper mount components to complete your lower spring assembly.
Step 7: Re-install suspensions
1. Align your new lowering spring and strut assembly back into your vehicle, securing all mounting points.
2. Tighten down all bolts and make sure everything is properly attached.
3. Move onto each corner of the vehicle and repeat steps 5-7.
Step 8: Reinstall wheels and lower car
1. Once all new lowering springs have been installed on each corner, replace and tighten lug nuts on each tire.
2. Use a jack to lift up each side of your car while removing jack stands underneath.
3. Slowly lower your car back onto the ground, ensuring stability.
Step 9: Final Inspection
1. Double-check that all suspension bolts are tightened properly and visually inspect each corner of your vehicle for any discrepancies before driving.
After completing these steps, you will have successfully installed lowering springs on your car! Keep in mind that you may need to get an alignment after performing this modification, as well as allowing time for your lowering springs to settle before assessing their full impact on your vehicle’s height.
Remember always to follow safety guidelines when working on cars and seeking professional assistance if you’re unsure about any aspect of this installation process. Good luck with your new lowered ride!