Spring swop

[paultownsend]

Quick easy question. Have a new set of Sachs OE springs for my GTI.

Can you change the front springs, with compressors, without taking out the struts.

I don't have the tool, and don't want to mess with the geometry.

[scarr89]

Lol. I would love to see someone try!

The springs fit over the strut. Unless maybe you unwind the spring around the strut 

[paultownsend]

I was thinking if i had an assistant compress the piston, and i had the spring already compressed?

[gm8]

there is just not enough room man, even if you managed to get spring on you would still need to try get the top mount on too. Even without the proper 'spreader' tool to remove the strut, a big chisel and hammer will substitute.

[gm8]

You wont mess with geometry if you dont remove the balljoint from the wishbone, But this will make your job harder ( but possible )
just mark the position of the ball joint bolts with tipex/touch up paint

[mcgee9t2]

just use a few old hex keys to spread the strut mount if you cant get it out, however iv never had any trouble getting the struts in or out. few bangs with a hammer and a bit of elbow grease and out they pop

[davidgtrr34]

Yes you can because I did it.

[Wayne]

Not a chance, better to remove the strut and compress the spring, it it under massive tension.