Prying down lower suspension arm

[ian_uk1975]

Just wondering if there are any particular tips to get lower control arms low enough to remove ball joints or struts? I've always used body weight to lean on the lower arm (sometimes with another helper), but it's a faff and always takes a while.

Any particular tips? It's easy raising the LCA, but getting it lower is a right pain!

[ian_uk1975]

finlo said:

If you have spring compressors you can gain an inch or two that way.

Hmm, how would a spring compressor help?

[ian_uk1975]

steveo3002 said:

have you tried a long pry bar

Yeah, trouble is finding something to pry against and also the clearance from the pry bar to the ground... not a problem if the car's on a lift, but an issue when it's only on axle stands.

[ian_uk1975]

Thanks for the tips... it's just one of those pain in the neck jobs that, whenever I'm faced with doing it, I always think there's got to be a better way!

[ian_uk1975]

Spangles said:

http://www.drapertools.com/product/23251/Expert-Su...

Good idea. This one is quite a bit cheaper...

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/271639591629

[ian_uk1975]

kev b said:

The chain or ratchet strap with a prybar or scaffold pole has always worked for me, sometimes use a block of wood to get more leverage.

Also if there is an anti roll bar attached then the opposite wheel should be off the ground.

Yeah, sounds good. Also, I've only got 1 side jacked-up, so will jack the other side so the wheel is off the ground on that side, too.