Automotive Specialty Tools: Coil Spring Compressors, Stud Removers And Steering Wheel Pullers

By Author: Johnthan Smith
Total Articles: 6
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Using the right tool to perform the corresponding job at hand while working on automobiles reduces effort and increases speed, safety and efficiency. In this article, we will discuss three unique automotive specialty tools.

Coil Spring Compressor

While working on the suspension system of an automobile, a garage mechanic may need to remove its coil springs. Since the coils are fitted in a way that they are under a lot of pressure, removing them may prove hazardous. The safest way to perform this task is by using a coil spring compressor.

These tools consist of two jaws, one to grip the upper coil and the other to grip the lower one. Once gripped, the coil spring compressor must be turned with a wrench. Doing so would cause the jaws to draw closer and squish the spring. Essentially, this tool causes the top nut to be loosened all the way to get the springs out but without dangerous force.

Also, coil springs lose their structural integrity over time, which ...
... may reduce the height of the vehicle, make maneuvering difficult and increase the wear of important suspension system components. The coil spring compressor helps in replacing these springs in order to get the vehicle back in top shape.

Stud Remover

An engine stud is a straight steel rod with threads at both ends, often used instead of a bolt. Most commonly, four studs are used in head assembly, four in each cylinder barrel and another two in the carburetor. In case of a motorcycle, the stud is screwed into the components of the crankcase of the engine. Over time, these studs may be damaged or the engine may need to be dismantled. The stud remover is an important tool that enables these processes.

To extract a damaged or broken stud, drill down its center and avoid the component it is fitted into. To do this, the broken end needs to be flattened and the center punch-marked. As the stud remover is tightened, it threads in an anti-clockwise direction, and the stud starts loosening.

Steering Wheel Puller

The correct tool to remove a steering wheel is the steering wheel puller. This cost-effective tool removes the center nut of the steering wheel so that it may pop out easily.

The process begins with the steering wheel puller being placed over the steering wheel’s center hub. Accompanying bolts are threaded into the holes of the wheel and tightened. The tool grips the center hub and the bolts are tightened, pushing the wheel off the steering column.

A note of caution: before using the steering wheel puller, the car battery must be disconnected and the horn mechanism disabled.

While each of the above automotive specialty tools are equally useful for garage mechanics and do-it-yourselfers, it is imperative for both to read and follow the instructions in the tool manual to avoid accidents and damage.