How to Replace a Coil Spring in a Ford Mustang

Your Ford Mustang may have a coil spring suspension in both front and rear of the vehicle. These steps apply specifically to replacing the coil springs in a Ford Mustang front suspension; make certain that you have the proper specialized tie rod end remover tool and spring compressor tools, or equivalents, before you get started.

Things You'll Need

  • Safety stands
  • Ratchet set
  • Tie rod end remover tool 3290-C
  • Spring compressor tool T82P-5310-A or equivalent
  • Raise the front of your Ford Mustang and support it with safety stands under both sides of the jack pads--just behind the lower arms. Then remove the wheel and tire assembly nearest the coil spring you intend to replace, and disconnect the stabilizer bar link on that side from the lower arm.

  • Loosen and remove the steering gear bolts, then move the steering gear out of the way. Next, use tie rod end remover tool 3290-C or an equivalent to disconnect the tie rod end from the steering spindle.

  • Install one plate of spring compressor tool T82P-5310-A or an equivalent spring compressor tool into the coils of the spring with the pivot ball seat down. Rotate the plate to fully seat it into the lower suspension arm spring seat. Install the other plate into the coils of the spring of the spring compressor tool with the pivot ball seat up and insert the ball nut through the coils of the spring so that it rests on the upper plate.

  • Insert the compression rod of the spring tool into the opening in the lower arm of the tool, through the upper and lower plates. Connect the upper ball nut to the rod and insert the securing pin. Note that the securing pin can only be inserted into the upper ball nut one way.

  • Turn the upper plate of the spring compression tool so that it walks up the coil and comes into contact with the upper spring seat, then install the lower ball nut, thrust bearing and forcing nut all onto the compression rod. Next rotate the nut until the spring is compressed enough to relieve all tension on its seat.

  • Remove the two lower control arm pivot bolts and nuts, then disengage the lower control arm from the frame crossmember to make sufficient space to remove the spring from the vehicle. Note the compressed height of the old spring, then carefully loosen the nut to relieve the compression on the spring and replace the old spring with a new one.

  • Verify that the upper ball nut securing pin on the compression tool is inserted properly, then compress the new coil spring until it reaches the same compressed height as the old spring, then position the spring in proper relation to the lower control arm. Make sure that the lower end of the spring is properly located between the two holes in the lower arm spring pocket depression, then slowly release the compression on the spring, making certain that it seats properly. Secure the lower control arm to the frame crossmember again, return the steering gear to its proper position and replace the steering gear bolts, then reconnect the stabilizer bar link and reinstall the wheel.