How To Install Spring Spacers

How to Install Spring Spacers: A Comprehensive Guide

Spring spacers are a popular modification for increasing a vehicle's ground clearance. This guide will walk you through the installation process, emphasizing safety and proper technique. Remember: Incorrect installation can severely impact your vehicle's handling and safety, so proceed with caution and consider professional installation if you're unsure.

What You'll Need:

Before you begin, gather these essential tools and materials:

• Spring Spacers: Ensure they're the correct size and type for your vehicle.
• Jack and Jack Stands: Absolutely crucial for safety. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
• Wheel Chocks: Prevent the vehicle from rolling.
• Lug Wrench: To remove and tighten your wheels.
• Socket Wrench Set: For various nuts and bolts.
• Torque Wrench: Essential for tightening bolts to the manufacturer's specifications. This prevents damage and ensures safety.
• Penetrating Oil (Optional): May help loosen rusted or stuck bolts.
• Gloves and Safety Glasses: Protect yourself from injury.
• Shop Manual (Highly Recommended): Provides specific instructions for your vehicle's make and model.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide:

This is a general guide. Consult your vehicle's repair manual for specific details and torque specifications.

Step 1: Preparation

1. Park on a Level Surface: This is paramount for safety and prevents the vehicle from rolling.
2. Engage Parking Brake: A vital safety precaution.
3. Chock the Wheels: Place wheel chocks behind the wheels opposite the ones you'll be working on.
4. Consult Your Manual: Familiarize yourself with your vehicle's suspension system and specific instructions for spring spacer installation.

Step 2: Lifting the Vehicle

1. Securely Jack Up the Vehicle: Position the jack under a sturdy part of the vehicle's frame, as indicated in your owner's manual.
2. Place Jack Stands: Once the vehicle is slightly raised, carefully position jack stands under the frame, ensuring they are stable and secure. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
3. Lower the Vehicle Onto Jack Stands: Slowly lower the vehicle onto the jack stands. Remove the jack.

Step 3: Removing the Wheel

1. Loosen Lug Nuts: Use your lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you'll be working on. Don't remove them completely yet.
2. Remove the Wheel: Once the lug nuts are loose, remove the wheel and set it aside in a safe place.

Step 4: Installing the Spring Spacers

1. Inspect the Suspension: Carefully examine the existing suspension components. Note the orientation of the springs and any other relevant parts.
2. Install the Spacers: Carefully position the spring spacer(s) between the spring and the chassis or suspension component, as directed by the spacer manufacturer's instructions.
3. Reassemble: Carefully reassemble the suspension components, ensuring everything is properly aligned.

Step 5: Reinstalling the Wheel and Lowering the Vehicle

1. Install the Wheel: Carefully mount the wheel back onto the hub.
2. Tighten Lug Nuts: Tighten the lug nuts by hand, then use your torque wrench to tighten them to the manufacturer's specifications. Do not overtighten.
3. Lower the Vehicle: Slowly lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
4. Final Tightening: After lowering the vehicle, give the lug nuts a final tightening check with the torque wrench.

Step 6: Test and Inspection

1. Test Drive: Take a short test drive to check for any unusual noises or vibrations.
2. Visual Inspection: After the test drive, visually inspect the suspension components to ensure everything is secure and properly aligned.

Important Considerations:

• Warranty: Installing spring spacers might void your vehicle's warranty.
• Alignment: After installation, you'll likely need a wheel alignment.
• Ride Quality: Spring spacers can affect your vehicle's ride quality.
• Legal Compliance: Check local laws and regulations regarding vehicle modifications.

This guide provides a general overview. Always refer to your vehicle's repair manual and the spring spacer manufacturer's instructions for specific details. If you are uncomfortable with any part of this process, it's always best to consult a qualified mechanic. Your safety should always be your top priority.