Best Strut Spring Compressors Reviewed & Rated for Quality
Replacing a strut and a coil spring is a common and standard procedure, but it can be really intimidating! If not done properly, this process could cause some serious injuries. That’s why most people choose to let professionals do all the job. Still, many DIYers and handypersons like to get their hands dirty and take care of their precious vehicle! For this cause, they follow all the necessary tutorials and manuals to get things right. However, even if you understand how it is done, you can still make serious mistakes if you don’t use a proper tool! Working on your vehicle’s suspension system is no joke. You want to make sure that the process is going to be painless and risk-free. That’s why you need quality strut spring compressors. Without a high-quality tool, you might as well give up from the entire process!
Featured Recommendations of Strut Spring Compressors
- ABN
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Our rating - Easy to Use
- Price: See Here
- OEM tools
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Our rating - Versatile
- Price: See Here
- 8MILELAKE
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Our rating - Durable
- Price: See Here
Although many people opt to rent a spring compressor, they still end up buying one for personal use. It’s way more affordable and convenient. If you learn how to use it once, you’ll do it every next time as well. In that case, it’s nice to have your own tool waiting in the garage and not going to the mechanic every single time. It’s also easier on your pocketbook. One purchase can solve it all! But, then, the mechanic knows what tool you need. How you’re supposed to pick the tool all on your own? Well, you’re not alone, we got your back!
We prepared a list of 10 coil spring compressors you could find on the market right now. They are super safe and versatile, so you’ll definitely be able to find the one that suits your needs. Still, if you find yourself confused with a variety of options, we prepared some extra tips and recommendations to help you out. We tried to cover all the basics and allow for a simple and successful purchase. Now, may we first present to you:
10 Best Strut Spring Compressors
ABN
So this tool is perfect if you want to remove the spring and strut on your vehicle. The process is quite simple! The tool works like a charm, with simple attachment and some tightening, the strut is out in a moment. It’s very easy and you’ll get it on the first try. Not to mention that the tool offers a sturdy construction to ensure safe use. We especially liked detent pins that lock the spring into its place. This allows for a much safer replacement!
The only drawback comes from the bulky hooks. If you have coils with little gaps in between it might be difficult to maneuver the hooks into place!
Durable
We already mentioned that this tool is very sturdy, but we have to add a few more compliments to its durability. What we liked the most is a hardened center screw and forged metal hooks. They guarantee outstanding performance for years of use!
You’ll also get a carrying case for simple transportation. The case is pretty sturdy, so you don’t have to worry about the safety of your tool. You get to carry it around and store it with great ease. If we only had more of these organizational boxes, our garages would be super tidy!
Cost and Value
Here we come to the best part – this strut spring compressor is not only reliable and durable but also well-priced. It’s a perfect option for all handypersons that want to do repairs on their own. Not to mention how useful it is for those who don’t want to spend money on renting tools anymore!
Easy to use
Locks the spring into place for improved safety
Sturdy construction
Durable
Comes with a carrying case
An attractive price
Bulky hooks
OEM tools
This is a versatile tool that suits a wide range of vehicles. Its design ensures compatibility with a variety of struts. The tricky process of compressing springs is a lot easier with it. After you attach it to the spring, you only need to tighten the spring in order to compress and replace it. You know the drill, but the new thing is this efficient tool that is very easy to use. It doesn't only make working on a suspension a breeze but it also improves safety. There are also detent pints designed to lock the spring into place and let you remove it with confidence!
Sturdy
You’ll be pleased to know that this tool is also very durable. It comes with forged hooks and a reinforced center screw to ensure a longer lifespan. The sturdy construction allows for easier maneuvering. It also gives you an additional piece of mind – it really looks like it’s going to keep everything in its place! All in all, the tool is super useful and you’ll probably use it for many years.
Cost and Value
On top of all first-class features comes a reasonable price! This tool won’t be hard on your pocketbook, so you can easily make it a part of your DIY equipment. We only wished for it to come with a better-designed case for transportation and storage. The plastic one is not to be bragged about. If you want to get a better one with the tool, you’ll have to add a few more bucks.
Versatile
Easy to use
Comes with detent pins
Durable
Forged hooks and reinforced center screw
Reasonable price
Comes with the poorly designed case
8MILELAKE
This one is designed to compress most MacPherson strut springs, and it fits a variety of vehicles. It offers a simple and quick strut replacement. This is mostly because it offers a broad contact with the spring, so you can adjust it perfectly. All in all, the tool is useful for replacement and repair of all kinds of struts. It's also very easy to use it so you'll perform all repairs like a real professional! What more could we ask for?
Quality Materials
What we didn’t mention is the sturdy construction that allows for safe use. The quality materials guarantee excellent performance and a long lifespan. Forged hooks and a reinforced center screw add to the stability and durability of the tool. Not to mention super useful detent pins. They keep the spring locked into place so you can be completely safe and replace the spring with great ease.
The only drawback comes from a little shallow bottom hook. It could cause you some issues if you want to get the safety bar over a thicker spring.
Cost and Value
We love this strut spring compressor! It’s not just that it offers outstanding performance but it also comes at an attractive price! This way, most DIYers can afford it and perform vehicle repairs all on their own! The package also includes a sturdy transportation bag. We don’t know about you, but we think everything that keeps a garage well-organized is a big plus!
Versatile
Easy to use
Sturdy construction
Forged hooks and reinforced center screw
Detent pins for improved safety
An attractive price
Issues with safety bars
Performance Tool
This strut spring compressor allows for simple and quick strut replacements and repairs. It comes with locking pins that guarantee safety. You get to lock the strut into its place and make sure it won’t slip. Overall, this spring compressor will make working on suspension system a real breeze! You’ll also get super useful instructions for both the tool and the process.
We only have to address one possible issue. Some users complained about the safety pins being too thick. If you do get these larger pins, you can grind them down a bit and case closed!
Steel Construction
When it comes to the overall quality of the product, we have only good words for it. You’ll be pleased to know that it features steel construction. Yes, steel makes this coil spring compressor reliable and very durable. Also, let us say how versatile is this spring compressor tool! Not only that you get to use it for a long time, but you can use it on a wide range of struts.
Cost and Value
Last but not least, we have to inform you about the incredible value that comes at a budget-friendly price. Yes, you read it right! You don’t have to spend a fortune to get this tool, which is another reason to love it!
Simple and quick strut replacement
Locking pins for improved safety
Detailed instructions
Steel construction
Durable
Budget-friendly
Some complaints about too thick safety pins
Shankly
This Shankly tool offers a safe and simple strut replacement. It comes with security hooks for improved safety and one extremely detailed manual. We always get excited with well-written instructions! They make us more confident and make the entire process a lot easier. Also, this compressor fits most vehicles and therefore it’s quite versatile.
Some users only noted that the tool tends to bend a little during the process. It’s not a big deal and it doesn’t jeopardize your safety, but it’s important to keep in mind.
Impressive Construction
When it comes to quality materials, we were quite impressed with the construction of this one! It features a drop forged enamel body. What does it mean for you? It means that you get to use it for many years without any issues! The sturdy construction also gives you the necessary confidence when working on the suspension system.
Cost and Value
We are happy to inform you that Sharkly comes at an attractive price. Therefore, you shouldn’t hesitate to make it a part of your garage tool equipment. It will definitely make repairs easier and last for quite a while!
Easy to use
Comes with security hooks
Comprehensive manual
Quality materials
Durable
Well priced
Some users noted that it does bend a little
Goplus
Once again we have a high-quality tool that is super safe for use. It features lock pins for more stability during the compression. It’s not universal, but the jaws open at around 12 inches. This is more than enough for a variety of struts. The only drawback is that you’ll probably need some extra time to figure out how to use it. Once you get it right, the maneuvering part is rather simple and fast!
Safe and Stable
The tool is made from high-grade materials to ensure safe and outstanding performance. The carbon steel body is also very durable, so you’ll find yourself using this strut spring compressor for many years! Not to mention that it has the ability to endure harsh conditions and high loads. All in all, it’s a heavy-duty tool and you’re going to love it for it!
Cost and Value
Although it’s not as cheap as some of the previously reviewed products, it won't cost you a fortune either. It's definitely well worth the money. You’ll also get a convenient bag for transportation and storage. Being as it is, you won't be disappointed!
Reliable
Lock pins for improved safety
Versatile
High-grade materials
Steel ensures durability
Reasonable price
Takes some time to figure out how to use it
Branick
This strut spring compressor is incredibly efficient and easy to use. It's designed to allow for working in different positions. You can install it in different angles and positions, according to your tasks. The more mounting positions it has the easier is to maneuver it and get the job done. Actually, its design allows for tackling all kinds of struts with great ease.
Tough Construction
This tough strut spring compressor is made of heavy-duty steel. It features an Acme thread that ensures outstanding durability. It doesn’t even require using an adaptor! The multi-position design increases the tool’s versatility, so you can use it for a variety of applications. It's suitable for most SUVs, trucks, and other big vehicles. The steel construction will ensure decades of use no matter on which strut size you end up using it!
Cost and Value
Now, as you probably assumed by now, such a top-notch tool has to come with a higher price tag. To get this incredible Branick strut spring compressor, you’ll have to add quite some cash. It’s definitely one of the most expensive tools of this kind on the entire market.
Efficient
Easy to use
Different mounting positions
Heavy-duty steel
Durable
Increased versatility
Sky-high price
Powerbuilt
As we mentioned above, strut spring compressors are designed for easy and quick strut removals. It offers safety pins for a more secure process and as a prevention from injuries. The box includes everything you need for working on a car suspension system. Therefore, you can use a strut compressor straight from the box and get to be proud of your work!
A Long Lifespan
When it comes to the durability of the product, there’s no much to say if you don’t want us to repeat all those praises you already heard! The tool is made of high-quality materials and guarantees a long lifespan. The only drawback is its size. This is a bulky tool that is sometimes hard to handle, depending on the strut sizes, and other factors. You can still use it to perform a variety of repairs, it’s just that some of the operations will be more difficult than the others!
Cost and Value
This strut spring compressor comes at a reasonable price and you can make it a part of your garage equipment in no time! You’ll also get a sturdy case for transportation and storage, and a detailed manual. We find the included instructions clear and super useful. Additionally, it's worth mentioning that the company stands behind their products. The package includes a lifetime warranty as well!
Easy to use
Secure and quick strut replacements
Features safety pins
Durable
Reasonable price
Includes a sturdy case, a manual, and a lifetime warranty
Bulky
OTC Automotive Accessories
This spring compressor tool is so versatile because it’s compatible with a variety of springs. It never fails to bring outstanding performance, no matter if you’re working on your truck or SUV. You only need an impact wrench to tighten the hooks, and that’s about it!
The only drawback comes from the fact that this strut spring compressor is primarily designed for larger vehicles. It comes with bulky hooks that might not work on smaller springs.
Sturdy yet Lightweight
One of the reasons why this strut compressor feels so safe is definitely a high-quality construction. Of course, locking pins are a great addition and they improve safety. However, what really makes this strut coil spring compressor super safe and efficient are top-notch materials. We also shouldn’t forget to mention how lightweight this spring compressor is! The sturdy construction wasn't done at the expense of a compact design. This allows for easy maneuvering and simple operations.
Cost and Value
Although it’s not even close to the most expensive products of its kind, you’ll have to add some cash to get this OTC strut spring compressor. Still, we fully support you on this one! It’s well worth every penny and you’ll be very satisfied with the purchase.
Designed for SUVs and trucks
Versatile
Easy to use
Durable constructions
Locking pins
Lightweight and easy to handle
Might not fit smaller springs
Pricey
Jacktech SK-3000
The manufacturer says it takes only around 10 seconds to completely compress the spring when using a coil spring compressor. We were intrigued and a bit skeptical at first. It turns to be completely true, as a matter of fact! This spring compressor really stands out from the competition with its outstanding efficiency. It lets you replace and repair struts rather quickly and accurately. Not to mention that it features adjustable holding arms to improve safety and allow for more precision!
Stable and Safe
This is a stable and safe tool. It’s one of the easiest-to-use strut spring compressors! Yet, this design wasn’t on the expense of sturdy construction. Jacktech offers outstanding durability. It proves to be equally efficient during many years of continuous use. Additionally, it has handles and large knobs that are not only easy to grab but also very comfortable.
Cost and Value
We know what you’re going to say, this strut spring compressor is so expensive! It is indeed, we don’t deny it. However, it offers such a great value that it’s one of our favorites! We find it worth every penny, so if you have that amount of money we highly recommend it. You won’t be disappointed!
Easy to use
Impressive efficiency
Adjustable holding arms for improved safety
Stable and sturdy
Durable
Comfortable
Very expensive
Criteria Used in Evaluation of Strut Spring Compressors
Ranking our 10 best picks was a rather challenging task. They are super useful and reliable tools that have a lot to offer. Of course, they do differ one from another, but the differences are not so noticeable! We had to examine and compare all their features and then rank them according to the final results. Here are some things that were very important for the evaluation:
Compatibility of Strut Spring Compressor
Not all strut spring compressors are equally made. They come in different sizes to suit different types of springs. Although we can’t guess which one is perfect for every customer, we were able to rank them according to their versatility. Tools that are compatible with a variety of struts are ranked higher on our list. They allow for better performance because we can use them when working on a range of vehicles.
Ease of Use for Strut Spring Compressors
Let’s not forget how tricky is working on the vehicles suspension system! You don’t only have to watch a lot of videos and read manuals to get it right, but you have to have a quality tool. A good strut spring compressor allows for quick and simple operations. This was another important thing for the evaluation. The easiest-to-use tools are at the top of our list, of course!
The durability of Strut Spring Compressors
Another important thing for strut spring compressor to have is durability! It has to be made of quality materials that can withstand quite a lot and provide a long lifespan. The steel construction is the best and we tried to honor that during the evaluation. We gave some extra points to all tools that are super durable. Don’t get us on the wrong way, all our 10 picks are incredibly durable. But they do differ one from another in some details. It was nitpicking, but we had to do it!
Cost and Value of Strut Spring Compressor
Lastly, these devices can be quite expensive! Powerful and professional machines offer incredible value, but they also come with a sky-high price tag. We had to consider this as well! You don’t only want to get a quality and safe tool. You want a durable one that can last for a long time. The full package is what you want to get! This is a one-time investment and you want to make sure that you’re going to get what you paid for. That’s why we provided detailed reviews of cost and value along with every product on our list!
Other Factors to Consider
When purchasing a strut spring compressor, it’s important to check many things if you want to get the perfect one for your needs! We made a short list of some of the most important factors to consider before the very purchase. Here’s what we have in mind:
Size of coil compressors
If you want to pick the perfect strut spring compressor for your vehicle, you’ll have to pick the adequate size. As we mentioned earlier on, they are not equally made and they do differ in sizes. So make sure that you’re purchasing the one that fits your vehicle’s strut! Of course, you can always go for a versatile tool that is compatible with a variety of struts. However, if you intend to work on the suspension system only occasionally, you don’t have to spend a huge amount of money buying a versatile tool. You only need to find the one that suits your particular vehicle!
The durability of strut spring compressors
Don’t get us on the wrong way, all tools have to be durable! We all want to have them for many years and use them without any issues. However, if you only need spring compressor for occasional use, you don’t need the high-end one with all the bells and whistles. The less expensive one will work just fine. It will last as same as the highly-priced one if maintained properly. Of course, we support you on aiming for steel construction and heavy-duty tool. We just think you can make some compromise if you don’t need a tool for daily use!
Budget
As we mentioned above, the price can differ according to features that a particular tool has to offer. If you’re on a limited budget, you’ll have to make some compromise. Determine the purpose and personal requirements and then opt for a particular tool. Also, we always recommend adding a few more bucks to get a better tool. You can’t put a price tag on safety! Don’t joke with the quality of strut spring compressors because it has to protect you when working on your car suspension system.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a strut spring compressor?
A: It’s a tool designed to help you tackle basic vehicle repairs. The tool is used for replacing springs, repairing damaged or bent struts, and more. You use a strut spring compressor to work on your vehicle’s suspension system. It might not seem that way at first, but this is a rather tricky process. Most people don’t even realize how dangerous it can get replacing a strut without a proper tool. A strut spring compressor doesn’t only help you do this with great ease, but it also protects you during the process. You should aim to get the best one you can for the budget! A high-quality tool will give you the necessary protection and efficiency as well. Safety always comes first!
Q: What are the most common types of strut compressor?
A: There are three most common types of strut spring compressor: an external, an internal, and a Klann-type. These days, the most used one is definitely an external type. It attaches to the spring from the outside and gradually compresses it. An internal type works quite the opposite. It compresses the spring from the inside which can be a little tricky. This is the main reason why an internal type is not so popular nowadays. A Klann-type is mostly used by professionals who need the tool for daily repairs. These are stationary units that allow for quick and efficient spring replacement. That’s why they are very expensive. Most DIYers can’t afford to get them which is probably the reason why they are not so popular.
Q: Can I rent strut spring compressor?
A: Yes, you can rent a spring compressor tool. Every mechanic shop should have one for rent, but not necessarily. Just keep in mind that renting is not always such a good idea. If you plan to use strut spring compressors more often, it might turn out more expensive then purchasing one for personal use. Not to mention all that hassle about going to the mechanic’s every time you want to do a simple repair!
Q: Are strut spring compressors safe?
A: Yes, they are safe. Like many other vehicle repairs, changing a vehicle’s strut is a rather tricky process. You can get hurt if you don’t do it in a proper way and with the right tools. While strut spring compressors are a must for this operation, you should also aim for quality ones. Follow the customers’ reviews, guides, and any other recommendations you can find. It’s important to have a top-notch tool to do this right. But when it comes to these tools, they are indeed super useful and safe. You just need to know how to use them!
Q: Can I replace a strut on my own?
A: Of course you can! However, this operation is no joke and could be dangerous. If you want to work on your vehicle’s suspension system all on your own, you should take the task seriously. We recommend consulting a professional mechanic. You should definitely watch some tutorials. The video will give you more than any written manual. If you can watch a professional doing this once or twice in front of you, even better! Also, we recommend trying this with improvised tools to get some sense out of it. This way, you’ll make sure you got everything right and that there won’t be any mistakes!
Q: How long will it take?
A: According to professional mechanics, it takes around 2-3 hours to replace a strut. Don’t put pressure on yourself! If you need more time, that’s completely fine. It’s important that you do it right to keep yourself safe during the process!
Sources
- , Coil Spring Compressor Safety, Article
- , How to Use a Spring Compressor for Common Auto Repairs, Article
- , What to Know Before Replacing Your Own Shocks or Struts, Article
