Spring Cutting: A Practical DIY Guide

If you want a lower stance without buying new springs, cutting the existing ones can be a cheap solution. It sounds risky, but with the right tools and a careful approach you can get a solid result. This guide walks you through the whole process, from planning to final checks, so you know exactly what to do.

What You Need Before You Start

First, gather a few essential items. You’ll need a good quality spring cutter or a heavy‑duty bolt cutter, a sturdy workbench, a rubber mallet, a measuring tape, and safety gear like gloves and goggles. A jack and jack stands are a must to lift the car safely. If you can, get a spring scale to measure the spring rate; it helps you keep the handling balanced after the cut.

Make sure the car is on a flat surface and the wheels are chocked. Lift the wheel, remove the tire, and detach the spring from the strut or shock absorber. Take a photo of the original setup – it’s a handy reference if you need to reinstall the stock spring later.

How to Cut the Spring Correctly

Measure the length you want to remove. A common rule is to cut no more than 5‑10 mm per side; anything more can make the spring too stiff and affect ride quality. Mark the cut line on both ends of the spring with a sharpie or a piece of tape.

Place the spring on a solid bench and clamp it securely. Position the cutter exactly at the mark and apply steady pressure. Let the tool do the work – don’t hammer or twist, as that can cause cracks. After the cut, use a file or sandpaper to smooth the edges. Rough ends can damage the mounting points later.

Re‑assemble the spring onto the coil‑over or strut. Make sure the mounting bolts line up correctly and tighten them to the manufacturer’s torque specs. Lower the car, put the wheel back on, and tighten the lug nuts.

Finally, take the car for a short test drive. Listen for any squeaks and feel for any handling changes. If the ride feels too harsh, you may have cut too much. In that case, consider adding a spacer or swapping to a softer spring.

Spring cutting can save money, but it’s not a one‑size‑fits‑all answer. It works best on cars with moderate drop goals and where the original spring isn’t already near its performance limit. Always prioritize safety – a broken spring can become a serious hazard.

Remember to keep the original spring pieces in case you want to revert to stock height. Store them in a dry place and label them clearly. This way you have a backup if you decide the cut wasn’t right for your driving style.

In short, spring cutting is doable with basic tools, careful measurement, and a focus on safety. Follow these steps, double‑check your work, and you’ll enjoy a lower look without breaking the bank.