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n2sMazda6 · 02-27-2011, 10:18 PM

So I'm in the process of gathering all the parts I need for supension upgrades. My car is a 2003 Mazda6, for those who are not familiar. Currently I have the following in my trunk:

- Mazdaspeed Springs
- Progress rear sway bar
- Bilstein Struts/ shocks

Also deciding on what rear endlinks to get.

My one big issue with all this is that I cant decide whether to do the work myself or to hand it over to a reputable shop. Of course I would love to do everything myself, but with little experience and lots of school work, I would need to set aside a whole day to do it. (or more). My first question is, what shops are around here that would do the job right at a reasonable cost? Otherwise, would there be anyone around willing to help me with the job? I've got a roommate whos familiar with cars but not as much with suspension...and Mazdas lol.

Although I may not be an "official" member of CSCC, I'm still excited to get this work done and make it for the final auto X this year!

***humjaba*** · 02-27-2011, 11:29 PM

Honestly working on cars isn't that difficult (as long as you have the correct tools...) Just be sure to take note of how everything came apart, and be sure to put it back together in the same way. Check the internet or service manuals for proper torque specs, and you should be okay to do it yourself.

n2sMazda6 · 02-28-2011, 12:40 AM

(02-27-2011 11:29 PM)humjaba Wrote: Honestly working on cars isn't that difficult (as long as you have the correct tools...) Just be sure to take note of how everything came apart, and be sure to put it back together in the same way. Check the internet or service manuals for proper torque specs, and you should be okay to do it yourself.

I have done basic jobs such as brakes and spark plugs(btw not an easy task on my car). Its really just the time issue, everything takes at least 2x longer than planned. Ill probably tackle the job in the next few weeks, definitely with plenty of PB blaster on hand.

Btw this is Ryan from your SI and ASME.

Chill2008 · 02-28-2011, 10:10 AM

I would recommend starting by reading some how to's with lots of pictures on forums (like this). Like any project, spending some time planning and setting up will save you big time and aggrevation later. Before starting you need to know exactly what tools you need...nothing worse than getting halfway through a job and discovering you don't have a certain tool. Keep in mind any shop can do a spring and strut install, doesn't have to be a performance shop.

Chaser350Z · 02-28-2011, 01:42 PM

Be careful with springs and spring compressors. Ive heard of bad things happening if the spring slips off.

n2sMazda6 · 02-28-2011, 02:49 PM

(02-28-2011 01:42 PM)Chaser350Z Wrote: Be careful with springs and spring compressors. Ive heard of bad things happening if the spring slips off.

Yes, one reason I wish I had the cash to afford coilovers.

**RHennin** · 02-28-2011, 10:30 PM

If you decide to replace the springs yourself, go to Advance Auto and do the spring compressor rental. I used it before and it worked well. Assuming you take your time and go back and forth to compress the spring evenly, it's pretty easy. Just a little time consuming if you dont have air tools.

I've replaced a the suspension on my two old civics 4-5 times or so and in most cases, suspensions are fairly simple and easy to remove/put back together. Just look up a diy online if possible, go over it several times, make sure you have the basic size tools etc. and give yourself plenty of time. Having to rush is generally where I've found myself in problems.

Good luck. Even though it sucks working in a hot parking lot on sometimes scalding hot pavement, its good to learn how to do basics on your car.

crazyboardr8806 · 02-28-2011, 10:49 PM

this is why we have the club garage! as soon as the power gets switched back on - should be done by the end of the week (i couldn't do it because i already have an account with duke energy), you can get in there and get it done! A nice compressor always helps to speed things up and suspension is super easy. Just make sure you schedule time/money for an alignment afterwards.

i'm also very familiar with mazda's Smile

n2sMazda6 · 03-01-2011, 09:13 PM

(02-28-2011 10:49 PM)crazyboardr8806 Wrote: this is why we have the club garage! as soon as the power gets switched back on - should be done by the end of the week (i couldn't do it because i already have an account with duke energy), you can get in there and get it done! A nice compressor always helps to speed things up and suspension is super easy. Just make sure you schedule time/money for an alignment afterwards.

i'm also very familiar with mazda's

That would be awesome! Definitely getting the alignment done once I'm finished. Is there a sign up list for time in the garage?