I'm changing front shocks....

[Blk Mamba]

... in the next month, and I was wondering, if I compress the coils while the old shocks are out, what would stop me from cutting a coil, with out removing the spring from the car.

[fastblackmerc]

... in the next month, and I was wondering, if I compress the coils while the old shocks are out, what would stop me from cutting a coil, with out removing the spring from the car.

Nothing....

I wouldn't do it. I value my fingers and other body parts.

You have to disassemble the strut to remove the shock so you'll have the spring out.

[Blk Mamba]

I thought the shock came out of the top.

[burt ragio]

You do not want to cut a spring while compressed. You can cut the springs should you choose when replacing the shocks.

[fastblackmerc]

I thought the shock came out of the top.

Nope...

You have to remove the entire strut & compress the spring to replace the shock.

[SGT_MERC]

Nope...

You have to remove the entire strut & compress the spring to replace the shock.
I'm getting ready to replace mine. This is correct, you have to remove the whole strut assembly, then compress the spring, disassemble the strut pack, remove the spring, replace the strut, reassemble and put the whole assembly back in. I'm going to rent a spring compressor or borrow one from Advanced AP.

[LANDY]

You will have to take the coils and shocks and for the best put the coils in a vice then cut them.

[SGT_MERC]

I'm getting ready to replace mine. This is correct, you have to remove the whole strut assembly, then compress the spring, disassemble the strut pack, remove the spring, replace the strut, reassemble and put the whole assembly back in. I'm going to rent a spring compressor or borrow one from Advanced AP.

Sorry I wasn't clear. I'm not cutting my coils, just replacing the strut.