Overview

Installing coilovers or lowering springs transforms your Celica's handling and stance. This comprehensive guide covers both spring replacement and full coilover installation, including the critical grinding process required for coilover sleeves and proper assembly techniques for reliable operation.

Required Tools & Materials

🚨 Critical Safety - Spring Compression

• Spring energy warning: Compressed springs store enormous energy - mishandling can cause serious injury
• Use proper tools: Spring compressors recommended, especially for inexperienced installers
• Controlled environment: Work in clear area away from others during disassembly
• Grinding safety: Coilover installation requires grinding - use proper safety equipment

Step 1: Front Suspension Removal

Secure the vehicle on sturdy jack stands and remove the front wheels. We recommend starting with the front suspension as it's slightly easier to access and provides good practice for the rear.

Remove the strut assembly by unbolting:

• Top mount: 3 bolts in engine bay (circled in image)
• Lower mount: 2 bolts connecting strut to control arm/hub
• Brake line bracket: Small bolt securing brake line to strut (boxed in image)

Step 2: Strut Disassembly

With the complete strut assembly removed, disassemble to access the spring. Remove the top bolt (boxed in the first image) to separate the spring from the strut assembly.

Spring compression note: Stock springs typically aren't under extreme pressure, but use caution. The bolt may "pop" when removed, with the top cap traveling about a foot. If you're concerned about safety, use a spring compressor.

📋 Installation Path Decision

At this point, choose your installation path:

• Spring replacement only: Skip to Step 7 (reassembly with new springs)
• Coilover installation: Continue with Steps 3-6 for grinding and sleeve installation

Step 3: Coilover Preparation (Coilover Only)

For coilover installation, retain only these components from the original assembly:

• Strut tower cap
• Strut bearings
• Strut assembly (shock)

Discard all washers and spring cushions - the coilover kit includes replacement components.

Step 4: Critical Grinding Process (Coilover Only)

This is the most critical step for coilover installation. The strut housing requires modification to accept the coilover sleeve.

Grinding procedure:

• Locate the silver/metal ring where strut is threaded into housing
• Carefully grind down this ring to allow coilover sleeve clearance
• Test-fit frequently - remove material gradually
• Clean all metal debris thoroughly after grinding

Install rubber rings from coilover kit around strut housing, then slide and secure the coilover sleeve. Set initial spring perch position.

Step 5: Spring and Assembly Installation

For spring replacement: Install new spring with all original rubber cushions and hardware in original configuration.

For coilover installation:

• Install spring on height-adjustable perch
• Install top cap over spring
• Install bearings in top cap
• Critical: Apply high-temperature grease to top cap bearing surfaces

Proper greasing prevents noise and ensures smooth operation under load.

Step 6: Front Reinstallation

Install the completed assembly using reverse removal procedure:

• Top bolts first: Secure the 3 strut tower bolts - this supports the assembly
• Lower connections: Align and bolt the 2 lower strut-to-hub bolts
• Brake line: Reattach brake line bracket bolt
• Final check: Verify all connections before wheel installation

Step 7: Rear Suspension Differences

Rear installation follows the same basic process with these key differences:

Access differences:

• Hatchback: Remove rear panels for strut tower access
• Coupe: Remove rear deck - pull third brake light cover, remove 2 bolts, disconnect wiring, fold seats, pry rear deck clips

Hardware differences:

• Sway bar disconnect: Allen key + open-end wrench technique (circled)
• Spring pressure: Rear springs have minimal compression - no spring compressor needed
• Greasing: Rear coilover top caps do not require greasing

🎯 Performance Results

📸 Component Gallery

💡 Installation Tips

• Grinding precision: Remove material gradually - you can't add it back
• Greasing importance: Front coilover top caps must be greased to prevent noise
• Test fitting: Dry-fit all components before final assembly
• Alignment required: Professional alignment essential after installation
• Break-in period: Allow suspension to settle before final height adjustments
• Access planning: Rear deck removal (coupe) requires patience and care