Installing Rear Coil Springs Again

[Leotrp]

Hello all, it seems that I need to change my rear coil springs on my 95 Impreza, because I have a Wagon, and Dobinson shipped me springs for a sedan. I wish I became aware of this before I installed these springs, but how could I know. Once I lowered the car to the ground, it was obvious. It looks like I’m driving around with a load of rocks.

 

I guess I should get to my question. A while back I was reading something online about installing new coils, and they showed a way to replace the rear coils without removing the strut. They removed the large strut nut, jacked up the car, removed the wheel and pulled out the old coil spring.

 

Has anyone ever attempted this on an Impreza wagon? Is this even possible? I’m only asking, because I don’t want to disconnect the brake lines again to remove the struts. I guess I could cut the brake line bracket on the strut. I just don’t feel comfortable doing it. I have this thing about Jerry rigging stuff.

 

I appreciate the help.

Thanks

[Legacy777]

Personally.......you're asking for a lot more headache this way....plus it's not exactly the safest method.

 

Just take the strut out......it will give you more room to do things, and you'll be less likely to skin knuckles, and forget something.

[99obw]

I have a friend that did it that way on the front of a FWD olds. Coil springs are not the thing to be cutting corners on. Do it right and remove the strut.

[Leotrp]

That’s what I thought, and I would like to save my knuckles. Do you think I should just cut the bracket on the strut to remove the brake line? I hate to have to bleed those brakes again.

[99obw]

I have heard of people cutting the bracket. Personally I have a cheap little Mityvac power bleeder so bleeding the brakes by myself isn't a big deal. I am a bit of a perfectionist so I probably wouldn't cut the strut, but do whatever you want. I would be careful to make sure the brake hose is securely attached when you are done if you do cut the strut.