In the process of upgrading my front suspension from stock to a mild performance setup. My question is with the coil spring removal. Most manuals say come in from the back(inner) of the A arm, removing the pivot bolts then lowering with the jack. Most of the online search's produce suggestions to come through the Front of the A arm knocking the lower ball joint loose first, then lowering with jack. Would like to see what the experienced guys recommend here as the best way, especially from guys that may have done it both ways as this is my first front rebuild.

 

I find it easier to do it from the front, removing the lower ball joint then lower the control arm. Do not remove the nut all the way as you knock the lower ball joint loose, keep it on so the lower control arm doesnt come crashing down. Once the arm is down you can pry out the spring.

 

I agree. I just did mine 2 months ago and this was the procedure I used. But, before you lower the control arm be sure to put a chain or strap through the spring and lower control arm just to make sure the spring doesn't come flying out as the control arm is lowered. It is under a tremendous amount of pressure, it's always better to be safe than sorry. Good luck.

 

Just got them out going through the front, wasn't too bad. Hopefully they will go in even easier. May revist this thread as the progress comes along and I run into a snag.
thanks guys!

 

Guys can someone tell me if body shims and alignment shims are one in the same? Seems all the main stream parts stores only carry "body shims" as labeled on the box. Is there a difference?

 

Went with the body shims, the size difference was very minimal.
Do the A-arm bushing bolts have to be torqued with the vehicle on the ground? Manual I have only mentions that the upper A-arm collar bolts(ones on the end)have to be torqued with vehicle weight on them. Is this correct?