Wear eye protection. Many dont, believing nothing bad will ever happen. It can, and does happen. The ER is not a fun place to be. I now wear goggles or a full face shield when im working under a vehicle.

 

I have what may be useful info in my build thread starting at posts 24: https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f46/19...256001/index2/

* Using a small wire brush on rusty threads of the lower shock mount can help get the nuts off without doing any damage. You do not want to destroy the mounting studs on the rear. As others mentioned use PB Blaster on rusty fasteners, or a mix of ATF and lacquer thinner makes a good penetrating fluid.

* Plan on replacing at least the front bump stops at the same time. They are probably in poor condition if they are still there at all and removing them helps get the spring out. They are low cost and important to prevent over compression and excessive stress of the coil springs. They will come out using a large screwdriver or small pry bar to dislodge them.

* On the front coil springs there should be a spring retainer clip that holds the bottom coil in place. They are not immediately easy to see and you will need to remove them. There is one bolt holding it. If your Jeep has lived its life in the salt zone as your location indicates it may be tough to remove. Be sure to soak that with penetrating fluid several times also. Replace the retainer clips after new springs are in place to reduce risk of dislodging a spring if you drive in harsh conditions.

* You will need to remove tires so be sure to use jack stands - just in case.

 

^ this should be on top haha
And for this job, don't put them under the front axle 😉

 

As an FYI, an OEM coil spring retainer clip/bracket for '84 to '01 is available here: https://teamcherokee.com/front-coil-...che-1984-2001/ Much easier than trying to get on out of a salvage XJ and it comes with the bolt.