Spring compressors for ATV struts

[Red Miller]

Hey all,

I am replacing the front shocks on an old Trail Boss and I need to find some smaller coil spring compressors. I bought some Strut compressors but they are for automotive applications and are too big. Anyone know where I can find a smaller version that will work on the small springs on the front struts for an ATV? Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thanks

[rundrave]

if you lift the front end off the ground (atv lift etc) you can do this job with out the compressors.

just be careful that the axles dont slide out of the CV boot I usually run a strap around the strut housings just to be safe (dont ask me how I know from experience)

[Red Miller]

rundrave, thanks for getting back to me. This is a 4x2 Trail Boss so no front axles. (sorry I should have specified) Anyway, I lifted the front end and by loosening the lower clamp bolts, the springs pushed the shock out of the mount. So getting the new shocks in is not a problem but in order to seat the shock in the clamp, I need to compress the spring about an inch. And then tighten the clamps. I am thinking of modifying the spring compressors I have by making some new bushings out of some black pipe and welding a 1/2 link of chain (hooks) on each bushing.

Dropping the front end back down doesnt quite have enough wait to compress the springs.

[Macgyver55]

I made a small set out of 3/8 threaded rod and bent metal hooks to grab the spring.

[Red Miller]

MacGyver...I like the way you think. That would work I think. I only need to put about 100 lbs force one the spring to compress it enough. What did you use for hooks?

[Gus]

I used a rachet strap on mine.

Also used a rachet strap to keep a snowmobile skid suspension compressed for easier installation.