New Jersey BMW CCA

In prep for NJMP in June I'm replacing my original shocks and struts on my Z4 Coupe. I pulled the first strut and there is only two accessible coils for a compressor to grab. The universal type compressor that worked on my E46 doesn't work here because it doesn't get the spring compressed enough. Am I missing something or does this car that rides lower than the sedan it's based on have a shorter spring? Can anyone recommend a compressor type that I can rent or buy if its cost effective? I'm enjoying doing the work and I hate to give up and bring it somewhere.

Thanks, Bill

To make a clamshell compressor work with a short E46 style spring, I had to put one side of the compressor on top of the upper spring perch. This is about as dangerous it gets and will result in amputation or death when the spring shoots out sideways.

I imagine one of these would be much safer.

Don't we have one in the toolbox? Anyway, I know Harbor Freight sells 'em starting at $14 but whether you want to trust a Harbor Freight tool on a spring is up to you.

We do not currently have one in the toolbox. I will try to change that.

Jeff

Jeff, we had a spring compressor back in 2010--I know because I used it on my E36. It is also still listed in the toolbox spreadsheet.

If it was lost, retired, damaged or what have you, it should be removed from the spreadsheet. Otherwise we need to hunt it down.

If I can do anything to help find or replace it I'm happy to help. Otherwise does anyone know of a shop in Hunterdon county that would swap out the struts if I drop them off?

Bill,
I've got the toolbox's spring compressor. Call me at (973) 881.2630 and we can arrange a hand-off. I'm in north jersey near Paterson/Ridgewood.

tim