This is not a good idea. Heating with a torch disrupts the temper of the spring and eventually causes sag. Been there, done that.

I do know of another method of cutting however. A place in Phoenix cuts metal springs, as well as many other items, with a high pressure water jet. I know a guy who had his springs cut. I'm waiting for the report on his results.

 

Snoopy-

I'm curious how they cut HHR rear springs, since both ends get wound tight like a bee-hive ...

 

..........cut a section out the middle and super glue the halves back together......

 

Hey if someone wants a set of factory rear springs to experiment with, PM me. I got the one's off my 09, let them go real cheap...

 

No, he's not doing it on an HHR. I think it's a '95 Chev. The springs were custom made for this custom car. My friend wanted another 3/4 inch all the way around.

 

You had to watch where you bought some springs because on the cars that the coils could be cut,some shady operators WOULD cut stock springs and pass them off as aftermarker..and charge aftermarket prices....

 

Spring clamps.

 

Oooh.. I can just see them working loose, rotating, and the bolts cutting through the spring coil over time.

 

Loctite.


Had them for years on a 71 Super Beetle (MacPherson struts on front) with no issues. Was only supposed to be temporary....

 

They should also have a second nut on there locking the first one down. We always did this back in the 70s and 80s. The way springs are done now I don't know if these would work so great. I think for an HHR it is just best to save up for a set of springs or coilovers.