Any tips to install a spring?

[Chris142]

The brake pedal return springs on my tractor are off. I have them. I cant figure out how to stretch and install them. They are very stiff.

Any tricks besides vice grips and screwdrivers?

 

[eljefino]

Many screwdrivers. Stick little wedges between each spring coil. Don't give any one position too much or you'll stretch them permanently.

Is there a way you can get all-thread in the middle with appropriate nuts and washers to make an inside-out spring compressor/ expander?

 

[Chris142]

I dont think so. The spring is only 3 inches or so long

 

[zrxkawboy]

Originally Posted By: eljefino
Many screwdrivers. Stick little wedges between each spring coil.


Coins work well for this, too.

 

[spackard]

A bent rod with a notch in the end, won't do it?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MIyESaecC2s
(They sell just the rod, and I have one laying around somewhere, but it's been awhile since I've needed one.)

 

[WobblyElvis]

Springs can be dangerous. Use protective eye wear.

 

[gman2304]

I used a ratcheting strap to stretch the spring out and then a large screw driver to “ persuade “ it on on my old JD tractor. Be careful, this could be dangerous and is a tough procedure.

 

[EdwardC]

I was going to suggest a similar tool that I saw ETCG use on springs for a drum brake replacement, might be useful. I like the idea of coin spacers though!

It was something like these.

https://www.weselltools.com/brake-spring...7UaArCvEALw_wcB

https://mobiledistributorsupply.com/lis4...RIaAre4EALw_wcB

 

[Linctex]

Pictures of the springs?

If they have hooks (tension springs), I use a loop of wire or cable clamped in a vise-grip

 

[Shannow]

No advice here...every one I've ever done was at considerable personal risk

 

[EdwardC]

Originally Posted By: Shannow
No advice here...every one I've ever done was at considerable personal risk

I think you're thinking of a suspension spring compressor.

 

[eljefino]

Originally Posted By: EdwardC
Originally Posted By: Shannow
No advice here...every one I've ever done was at considerable personal risk

I think you're thinking of a suspension spring compressor.


Stretching brake drum type springs ain't fun, either... trying to work it over the "nail" using the tip of a screwdriver, sparks flying, etc.

 

[GravelRoad]

Spring Pull Tool https://www.ebay.com/itm/Genuine-MTD-732-0571-Spring-Pull-Tool/232260443358?epid=1713027439&hash=item3613cd1cde:g:8G4AAOSwiYlaGIxS

I have and use three different sizes of these type of spring pull tools. work very well.
Also used a piece of looped starter rope many times, just make it into a loop, put on gloves, hook the spring and pull into place.

edit: I use these tools on lawn and garden equipment not farm tractors.