Can I replace my rear-shocks without a spring compressor?

Trying to save money and replace my rear shocks. I've only got regular hand tools. Can I do this without any special tools?

Yes, you don't need a spring compressor to do the rears. I have only used hand tools, ok a Sawzall is a hand tool…. to install or remove the rears.
Front's yep you need a compressor for after as they will kill you, and compressors are only about 20 bucks US.

But for the rears they aren't under sufficient load once you jack the car up.. You will need a good set of Jack stands, and you support the car on the Pinch Welds of the Rockers.

The hardest part about the rears is the lower strut bolt.  They can become seized in the metal through bushing on and it spins in the strut housing…. and it is so Frozen you can't beat it out, and if you hit the bolt with a hammer it can Mushroom, and then won't go through the bush to clear the other side, I have  tried various methods over the years, and the Easiest ia a "Sawzall".  I Have used a grinder on both sides then pried the shock out by bending the mounting ears away… Sawzall is easier, but you have to watch the blade so you don't slice in to the mounting tabs…

On the 5 MK1's that I owned and one was new off the showroom floor,  I have had to cut that bolt out.  The first ones I can vividly remember having to use a hacksaw bare blade with tape on one end and it took a long time to get it out…

Now 25 years later I have a Sawzall it is a little easier, but still a pain in the hiney.

Second set of struts were easier because I learned to Mummify that bolt on re-install.

But every car I have had, I had to cut those bolts out so be warned that it may happen.

I wrap the new bolt (grade 8.8 or 10) from head to threads with Teflon Tape, then Slather it with Never-Seize.



Same bolt after 6 years on the car ready for second set of struts.


All the old Teflon tape removed and getting ready to re-wrap.

Bolt I speak of:


 I got a little pithhy and torched one of them  off.


How I change out my Rear Shocks.
http://volkswagenownersclub.com/vw/showthread.php/32174-How-to-replace-your-Rear-Struts

It's a good time to check the rubber rear mounts, they are about £30 for both top and bottom for both sides and that was genuine VW parts but I did buy mine a few years ago.

Get plenty of waxoyl or similar over the metal top cup as well.

My old one.


New one fitted.