Anyone in the Manhattan Beach area got a spring compressor they could loan me. I am going to do my M3 spring/shocks myself.

Buy one at Harbor Freight Tools. Only ten bucks and you don't have to return it.

Just rent it from the local auto part store. It's practically free.

PepBoys. ;)

Or have a shop install the springs on to the struts - let them deal with it.
Then all you have to do is install the strut.

Or have a shop install the springs on to the struts - let them deal with it.
Then all you have to do is install the strut.

Installing springs on to the strut assembly is the easy part. Removing/installing the assembly is the most time consuming. Using the spring compressor is very easy, especially if you use a reversible drill or air wrench to work the adjustment bolts.

Installing springs on to the strut assembly is the easy part. Removing/installing the assembly is the most time consuming. Using the spring compressor is very easy, especially if you use a reversible drill or air wrench to work the adjustment bolts.
I agree 100%...

I too agree, but not 100%, only because there are safety concerns when compressing the springs.
Overall though. Even the installation of the struts is pretty straight forward.

I got the Strut Spring compressor at Auto Zone. I start tomorrow after I figure out my gas leak........sigh :rolleyes

Good luck with that, just take your time and use the proper tools and you should be alright. The rears are easy, the fronts take a little more work. if you get stuck on anything just give me a ring and I'll see what I can do.

(Remember, the torque wrench is your friend ;) )

phill f.