I'm pretty much ready to order h&r springs from tirerack, I just don't want to be surprised of not having the right tools once I start taking everything apart. so the big nut, do I need a #22 or a #23 socket? (some say 22, others say 23...) for compressing the springs, was neone able to make use of the spring compressor from harbor freight? (someone mentioned that the tool's too big for the prius springs) BION StarCaller
I went with this to cover all bases TEKTON 4885 1/2" Drive Deep Impact Socket Set, 11-32mm, Metric, Cr-V, 14 Sockets:Amazon:Home Improvement I also rented the free spring compressor from autozone, worked fine FWIW: I hate my H&R springs. While the ride height is perfect... the ride sucks. I've had my fair share of lowered cars on various springs, this is my first H&R kit. It feels like the spring rates between front and rear are different. WHEN I feel up to it, I'll be swapping them for eibach
When going over any dip in the road at speed, the front feels like a low car with weak springs while the back feels tight and predictable. The front feels lousy to me, almost like I cut the factory springs. I bought the H&Rs here from another member. They were brand new and never installed. They weren't my first choice but it was a good deal. In retrospect I should have gone with new Eibachs for a few dollars more. Many others compliment the Eibach ride quality but dont like ride height. After 5k mi on the HR, I'll deal with less than optimal ride height for a high quality ride feel.
Here's a couple links to threads that I used for my spring install. Kudos had to be given to Hawaiian Built and Andino, these threads offer step by step details.. TANABE SUSTEC Strut Tower Bar & Under Brace DIY Installation PIX !!! | PriusChat DIY: Spring Install | PriusChat I had a hard time with the Harbor Freight compressor on the front struts so I took them down to my mechanic and he swapped the springs on his bench for me for $40. iPhone ?
No matter how much I compressed, I could never decrease the tension on the top plate and I was too nervous about taking the strut apart and shooting it across my garage. I couldn't believe the spring would compress in the middle inside the tool but not outside of it. I combined blame between a cheap tool and my fear. iPhone ?
