gixer2000
Retrofit or Bust
You should be using anti seize on that spring compressor. That will stop the nuts from binding up
2003 Expedition Face Lift Begins
- Thread starter Vancouver Bob
- Start date
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OP
OP
Vancouver Bob
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It was binding because the spring compressor was a bit abused and not maintained by NAPA. The nuts had very little thread left so the binding was the nut beginning to jump threads, for the third time. I've got a new set of compressors that I'm borrowing from O'Reily's. Looks to be in great shape so the rear springs should go much faster. Thanks for the suggestion though!
OP
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Vancouver Bob
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Got a jump on the rear. Shock assembly came out pretty easily. Bottom bolt needed a little convincing to come out and I had to get the tie rod out of the way but wasn't too bad.
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OP
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Vancouver Bob
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The new spring compressor was SOOO much better. Had no concern cranking on that one. Got the spring off and shock in place pretty quickly. Reused the old bumper and dust cover. It went back in as easy as it came out. Only thing that hung me up was how far lower the shock was. I started removing the end link to the sway bar hoping that would allow the control arm to drop down but decided to call it a night before I got that far. Will finish up tomorrow night, if all goes well.
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Vancouver Bob
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Got an update from Natalie (WAM Bumpers)... looks like my bumper is ready for paint prep. I'm liking how it's shaping up!
OP
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Vancouver Bob
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Finished the springs/shocks/lift this evening. To get the rear shocks back in place, in addition to the end link and the toe link, I ended up having to undo the top control arm from the hub. I didn't realize this but it's an adjustable bolt... must be for camber. Used the extension cord to keep the toe link out of the way.
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Vancouver Bob
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Feels good to have it done! I'll take some "after" pictures tomorrow. It's surprising how high it feels... like when I opened the lift gate, the rear deck felt like it was chest level! Ha ha!
