99 Montana Rear spring issue

[99MontanaJoe]

Hello all, im joe and im new to the forum. i have been lurking around for awhile searching and trouble shooting (thanks btw). i recently had a rear spring snap in half and was wondering if i can replace it myself (is it a hard job?). what all do i need to do? do the springs come compressed already when buying new? i can get a used one from a scrap yard, would it be harder to replace with a used one? thanks in advance

Joe

 

[melsg5]

you need a spring compressor tool, doesnt matter whether new or used, and perhaps a copy of a Hanes or Chilton repair manual.

 

[99MontanaJoe]

OK, thanks. Someone told me that when you buy them new they come compressed with a strap and you just cut it off once installed. so i can get one dirt cheap ($10) at a scrap yard if i pull it off (or cut if i have to lol) is it worth it or should i buy one new? either way i have to get someone to do it cause i dont have a compressor

 

[old man]

I used to watch an old timer put springs in by throwing a chain over something solid on the chassis and under his floor jack and by operating the jack he would compress the spring.