Knuckle/Hub replacement - Spring Compressors?
 

Please excuse my ignorance, but I have a noisy front wheel bearing on my 2002 XJ Sport 3.2. I've decided to take the easy route and have bought a recon knuckle/hub with new bearings pressed in. I've read just about every post on the subject, but I'm still unclear as to whether I need the special Jaguar Road Spring Compressor (JD115) to change them over.

Please advise

There are 2 Jaguar spring compression tools for working on the front suspension.

The LONG threaded rod can be used to remove the spring as it is long enough to completely relieve tension. It can also be used to just hold the spring and lower arm(s) for parts to be replaced.

Jaguar also has a shorter version to hold the spring in place for repair.

Since you just want to replace the vertical link the short one will suffice.

YES you will need to hold the spring (tension) while you replace components on the front suspension.

You can fabricate a spring holder from 3/4" all-thread rod, a 5/16" 'though-pin', a nut and some LARGE washers to slightly compress and hold the spring.

The Jaguar tool uses 20mm threaded rod so 3/4" (19mm) is close enough for what you want.

bob gauff

From what I remember when I did my front part, a hydraulic jack under the front wishbone, on the floor, was enough without using any spring compressor(the car weight will keep the spring compressed ). A press is needed for the ball-joints, they are fixed very tight in the vertical link holes.

I did mine with no spring compressor. I used a pickle fork to release the ball joints, and that was about it.

If the damper is left in place it will support the lower arms. (Sorry, I left that part out)

bob gauff

Thanks for your advice guys. I think I'll be safe rather than sorry.