There are two basic types of coil spring compressors - internal style and external style. Whenever you are working with a coil spring compressor or a MacPherson Strut compressor, you should always be careful and install the unit properly to avoid injury, because quite a bit of pressure is involved when using these spring compressors.

The internal coil spring compressor is used for the installation and removal of springs and spacers and is used for everything that does not have obstruction going through the center part of the spring, such as MacPherson Struts or shock absorbers. We carry the ATD 7549 coil spring compressor and recommend it for internal coil spring compression.

External coil spring compressors are used to service conventional MacPherson Struts, as well as those used on GM A, J, and X body cars. We carry a number of MacPherson Strut compressors and recommend the ATD 7551.

If you need a compressor for servicing a wide range of MacPherson Struts, try the OTC 7560, which is designed to service with ease. The No. 310338 (bridge accessory) is used to provide additional support when smaller springs are being serviced. This compressor is neat, because it can be driven by an impact wrench for speed.