Coil Compressor Question

[FJoel]

So my local shop won't install my lift, which is kinda good. One... I save money. Two... I learn stuff and get to do it myself. I don't like having other people work on my truck, or anything for that matter.

I am going to attempt an OME lift here soon.

Questions:

Do I need coil compressors?
Where can I buy them? eBay?
Do OME lifts come with install instructions?

Any other useful info please.

Thanks in advance.

(Yes I am a newbie when it comes to coils. Used to leaf springs and torsion bars.)

[1911]

FJoel previously said:

Do I need coil compressors?

Yes.

Where can I buy them? eBay?

You can by anything in this world on eBay. You can also buy them at Sears, Northern Tool, Horrible Freight, etc.

Do OME lifts come with install instructions?

Mine didn't.

Any other useful info please.

Thanks in advance.

(Yes I am a newbie when it comes to coils. Used to leaf springs and torsion bars.)

The search function is your friend. There have been several OME install threads with pictures, instructions, and tips already. Good luck and be safe.

[1911]

1911 previously said:

The search function is your friend. There have been several OME install threads with pictures, instructions, and tips already.

here's two for free:

OME front coil install

ToyTec Lift Install - Full Writeup and Pictures

[wrigman]

All I can say is DON'T CHEAP OUT on coil compressors!!!!!!! Buy good ones! The OME springs are strong and need a good quality compressor used on them. These things CAN be dangerous! The best compressors I could find around here were at Napa at about $75.00. Good luck, stay safe!

[FJBlack]

FJoel previously said:

Questions:

Do I need coil compressors?
Where can I buy them? eBay?
Do OME lifts come with install instructions?

Can't speak to OME, but I didn't need compressors for my Allpros. I did try to use them though to see if it would be easier and they didn't work because the tightness of the coil wouldn't allow the compressor to mount properly. OME's could be different though. Also, for $6 a day you can rent a compressor kit at the autoparts store.

For the rear coils, I DID need to use a compressor to get the new (larger) allpro springs in. The stock ones I could get out no problem (they are smaller).

[Jelopy]

Two Harbor Freight sets will work. I did not feel they were unsafe. Use 'em, abuse'em, throw them away. I paid $6.99 for each set. We also destroyed a $50 Sears set doing Bills FJ.

[20Montana]

The sears compressor is a nice heavy compressor for 50$. Be sure and mark your struts before you take them apart. They will go back together right the first time if you do. You don't need the compressor for the rears with the OME. Get a friend to help move the rear axel up and down. The new springs will go back in without the compressor.

Let us know if you have questions.

[FJoel]

Thanks guys. One more... how many do I need? I've heard as many as four being used on one coil??

[mach]

20Montana previously said:

The sears compressor is a nice heavy compressor for 50$. Be sure and mark your struts before you take them apart. They will go back together right the first time if you do. You don't need the compressor for the rears with the OME. Get a friend to help move the rear axel up and down. The new springs will go back in without the compressor.

Let us know if you have questions.

When I did my Toytec 3" lift, I just went to Autozone and "rented" their spring compressors. When I ended up needing 4, I just went to another autozone. It's free if you take them back. Besides, who really needs their own spring compressors? Are you planning on de-lifting your truck sometime? If I ever need to change my springs again, off I go to the local autozones. Do yourself a 50 dollar favor and don't buy spring compressors.

[1911]

FJoel previously said:

Thanks guys. One more... how many do I need? I've heard as many as four being used on one coil??

If you use the cheapo screw type you'll want four.