Here's a general outline. Specific procedures and torque specifications will vary slightly depending on the year and model of your Catera. Always consult a repair manual specific to your vehicle's year and model for precise instructions and safety precautions.
Tools you'll likely need:
* Jack and jack stands: Essential for safety. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Wheel chocks: To prevent the car from rolling.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheels.
* Spring compressor: This is absolutely crucial and significantly reduces the risk of injury. Cheap compressors are risky; invest in a good quality one. There are different types (internal and external), make sure you get the right one for your Catera's spring design.
* Sockets and wrenches: A variety of sizes will be needed, likely including metric sizes.
* Ratcheting wrench: Makes the job much easier.
* Penetrating oil: To help loosen any rusted or seized bolts.
* Torque wrench: Essential for tightening bolts to the correct specification.
* Shop rags or towels: To keep things clean.
* Repair manual: A must-have for precise instructions and torque specs.
General Procedure (This is NOT a complete guide; use your repair manual):
1. Safety First: Engage the parking brake firmly, use wheel chocks, and raise the car securely using jack stands. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the wheel on the side you're working on.
3. Access the Suspension: Depending on the year, you may need to remove other components to access the coil spring, such as brake components, shock absorber, etc. Your repair manual will guide you on this step.
4. Compress the Spring: This is where the spring compressor comes in. Carefully and according to the compressor's instructions, compress the spring. This is the most dangerous part of the job. Improper use of a spring compressor can lead to serious injury.
5. Disconnect the Spring: Once the spring is sufficiently compressed, disconnect the spring from its perch (top mount) and the lower control arm (bottom mount). There will likely be bolts securing these connections.
6. Remove the Spring: With the spring compressed, carefully remove it from the vehicle.
7. Installation: The installation process is the reverse of the removal. Be sure to follow the correct order and torque specifications for all the bolts. Always consult the repair manual.
8. Lower the Car: Once everything is reassembled, carefully lower the car from the jack stands.
Important Considerations:
* Rust and Seized Bolts: Older Cateras are prone to rust. Use penetrating oil liberally to help loosen any bolts. If bolts break, you'll likely need to drill them out, a more involved process.
* Spring Compressor Safety: Use caution with the spring compressor. Ensure it's securely engaged and that the spring is properly compressed.
* Alignment: After replacing the spring, you'll likely need to have your car's alignment checked and adjusted by a professional.
Again, this is a general overview. You absolutely must consult a repair manual specific to your Cadillac Catera's year and model. Incorrect procedures can lead to damage to your vehicle or serious injury. If you're not comfortable performing this task, take your car to a qualified mechanic.
