how do you remove coil springs?

[Defcon x Zero]

i need to remove the coil springs on the front of my 1991 explorer 4x4 and i know the nut on the centerbolt is 1-1/8 but how the hell do i get it off? the washer underneath isnt flat its like a cup so a flat, open end wrench cant get in there and i dont have a long enough rachet wrench end since the bolt sticks up pretty far. what tool do i need to get and where can i get it? HELPPP!!!!!

 

[Anime]

The trick to the spring retainer nuts is to use a 1 1/8 deep socket, and get the right size extension (1", 3" 6", whatever) so your breaker bar/ratchet goes BETWEEN the coils of the spring to spin the nut. Using a long extension and going from the top down through the spring works too, but a shorter extension makes it lots easier to get the torque you'll need to bust it loose. Make it easier on yourself by cleaning up the stud threads with a wire brush before trying to loosen it. The "washer" underneath is the spring seat, which has that hump to center the coil spring. Make note of it's position so you can line it up the same way during re-assembly.

 

[410Fortune]

You need to fully droop the beam as well, this helps open the coil a bit allowing you to put your ratchet or wrench between the coil windings

going from the top you will need a long extension. You may also need a breaker bar to loosen and torque it back down, I use 1/2" drive 1-1/8" 6 point socket but I have also done the whole job with a 1-1/8" box wrench