First off.. I'm pretty embarrassed for having to make my first impression this way... I'm a long time ''learner''on this forum and unfortunately put myself in a position tonight where i need to break my silence and ask for help.. Any and all feedback is appreciated, even a little bashing is warranted.
First off I think it's important to get out of the way that i'm not a formally trained mechanic by any means but with the proper tools and decent instruction I'll always take on the challenge to do something myself while learning in the process.. Not to mention the money that can be saved.
Let's dive in:
2014 GT/CS (650 miles)
Attempting to install SR Lowering Springs.. Not my first time with a spring compressor although if you saw me tonight you'd think otherwise. I followed this video for a little guidance
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v9m1O5Gr5OU
Got the driver side strut removed and as I'm tightening the spring compressor, (Equally and gradually on both sides until I see the top of the spring slightly separate from the top of the strut), I notice a few small ball bearings fall out.. BB size and greased.. As I stare at the ground in disbelief, spring fully compressed, a few more trickle out. I didn't even attempt to remove the top bolt from the strut at this point due to me being in shock. I just removed the compressor and stared at this mess for a half hour.
I'm almost positive I bent it too somehow
--What did I do wrong compressing the spring?
--Is it possible to pick up a strut at a local dealer or would I be waiting for them to order it just as I would if I ordered it myself online?
--Is anyone out there who's completed a spring swap willing to part with some useful tips to prevent me from making this mistake again?
I am determined to finish this job on my own.. I know it's not rocket science.. This is my 3rd 'Stang but first I've purchased new.. I wanted to do everything perfect. I'm beside myself for leaving her in such disarray over night like this..
Thanks for taking the time to read and respond.. I am forever indebted to those who come to my aid in this time of need.
First off I think it's important to get out of the way that i'm not a formally trained mechanic by any means but with the proper tools and decent instruction I'll always take on the challenge to do something myself while learning in the process.. Not to mention the money that can be saved.
Let's dive in:
2014 GT/CS (650 miles)
Attempting to install SR Lowering Springs.. Not my first time with a spring compressor although if you saw me tonight you'd think otherwise. I followed this video for a little guidance
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v9m1O5Gr5OU
Got the driver side strut removed and as I'm tightening the spring compressor, (Equally and gradually on both sides until I see the top of the spring slightly separate from the top of the strut), I notice a few small ball bearings fall out.. BB size and greased.. As I stare at the ground in disbelief, spring fully compressed, a few more trickle out. I didn't even attempt to remove the top bolt from the strut at this point due to me being in shock. I just removed the compressor and stared at this mess for a half hour.
I'm almost positive I bent it too somehow
--What did I do wrong compressing the spring?
--Is it possible to pick up a strut at a local dealer or would I be waiting for them to order it just as I would if I ordered it myself online?
--Is anyone out there who's completed a spring swap willing to part with some useful tips to prevent me from making this mistake again?
I am determined to finish this job on my own.. I know it's not rocket science.. This is my 3rd 'Stang but first I've purchased new.. I wanted to do everything perfect. I'm beside myself for leaving her in such disarray over night like this..
Thanks for taking the time to read and respond.. I am forever indebted to those who come to my aid in this time of need.