Hello All,
I need some advice on rebuilding the front struts on my 2003 S40. I ran into two problems in the middle of this project.

I thought a regular set of spring compressors would work, but I cannot compress the springs far enough to releave tension on the spring seats. Do I need a special compressor set for strut springs?

I also just realized my rebuild kit did not include new spring seats. Any thoughts on reusing the old spring seats, or should I just put this on hold and order a pair of new seats?

One other thought. If I need a special spring compressor and new seats, would I just be better off at this point returning my kit and ordering a new pair of assembled struts?

I've done coil spring replacements on other vehicles, but this is my first endeavor doing a set of struts. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Rich
Apex, NC