A Better "Suicide Stick" ??

[The Critic]

As some of you may be aware, the OEM brand spring compressor sticks from Autozone's rental bin are difficult to use. The top nut is too close to the clamp, which makes it very difficult to use on certain applications.

While searching online, I found these sticks from SPC which seem to be a better option:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GfnuERu6BW4

Has anyone tried these before? They seem to be far superior to the autozone option since the rod is much longer so that the nut will not interfere with the top mount.

However, for the same price, you can buy this compressor...would this be a better option?

http://www.amazon.com/OTC-6494-Clamshell-Spring-Compressor/dp/B0002SRHU6

Thanks.

 

[PandaBear]

Top: where's the safety pins? Looks dangerous

Bottom: only works with 1 diameter spring?

 

[ChrisW]

Originally Posted By: PandaBear
Top: where's the safety pins? Looks dangerous

Bottom: only works with 1 diameter spring?


It looks like there is a piece on the SPC unit that swings under to complete a hold around the part of coil and is locked in by the thread underneath. It is hard to describe in words so look at 1:36 into the video.

As for comment on either spring compressor, I have a bitterness towards most any on-coil compressor and much prefer the Branick Wall-Mount style spring compressors. They cost way more than these on-coil style but are faster and easier than the on-coil ones in my opinion. I used the Branick wall mount when I took a Brakes and Suspension class at the local city college. For home use, I suppose it's a bit much unless you service a lot of friends and family vehicles.

Edit: To OP, to more directly answer your question, I have not used either of those on-coil compressors. It looks like the SPC one would be more universal since you would not be restricted by coil diameter.

 

[SLCraig]

I have this one, it works great.
http://www.princessauto.com/pal/product/8023104/

 

[SIXSPEED]

There's another type sold by Schwaben. Personally I've only used the Craftsman threaded rod type compressors.

Their link is not working, but you can search the Sears site for "Schwaben spring compressor."