replace front struts 99 camry

This is a joke, right?

Would you like donations to a favored charity in lieu of flowers?

You'll also remove a finger or some teeth (plush dent the fender). Rent or buy a spring compressor - Harbor Freight has one for like $10-20.

What would you expect from a guy that buys a Toyota? ;)

mike

The strut assembly has to be removed from the vehicle before compressing the spring. Using the hook-type spring compressor may work, but IMO, they are very dangerous and not something I would attempt. Shops that do a lot of strut work have a wall-mounted strut compressor that places a protective cage around the assembly before compressing the spring for greatly improved safety. After the strut is replaced, the suspension will need to be re-aligned.

AutoZone has a Tool Loaner Program where they will let you use the spring compressor for free.

I can't imagine how your strategy could be successful because even when the car is pressed down, the spring remains under considerable pressure.

Not the one they showed me! I went across the street and cut a deal with the guys at Meineke...

It cost $30 a strut, but I still have my teeth! That tool was awful! The 'clamps' were loose and looked like they would let the spring slip out. I ain't that brave.

For $40 you can buy a Lisle that BOLTS onto the spring. It's about 1/4" steel U-Bolt that bolts arond the spring and into the tool with a 1/2" nut. About the safest 'portable' tool I have seen.