John, there is no top or bottom on the springs.  Either
end up is fine.  Fit the bottom of the spring in the
spring perch so the end fits in the groove.  Fit the
top rubber cap the same way, so it fit right in the
groove.  Spray the top spring rubber with soapy rubber
to help make it easier to get in.  Insert the bottom of
the spring first, then you can force the top in.  twist
the spring back and forth and use the soapy water on
the rubber.

As for the stabilizer bar, again use soapy water on the
rubber...work up a lather!  Or get some of that water
based sex gel stuff!  Just get it all slippery and it
will slip off with some persuasion.  Unbolt the lower
part from the control are first and use the bolt part
for a leverage handle.

Good luck.  And if anyone has questions about the
springs, just let me know.  they come with free tech
support.
Steve

John Clemens wrote:
>
> I'm installing the new front springs on my 1983 Westfalia and I have two
> quick questions.  On the front springs is there a top and a bottom?  There
> was no mention of this in the limited instructions that came with them, and
> the Bentley manual says to make sure the "straight end" of the spring goes
> on the bottom.  Well great, the original ones have straight ends on the top
> and the bottom.  The new ones have straight ends with slight chamfers, but
> one end has more of a chamfer than the other.
> Also, if you line up the top end with the orginal spring top end, the bottom
> ends don't match in location(not even close).  Does this mean anything in
> the great scheme of things?  I hope someone knows the answer.
>
> Other question, I'm replacing the bushing where the stabilizer link fits
> over the stabilizer bar(the stabilizer link is the vertical piece between
> the stabilizer bar and the lower control bar, it has a eye on the top
> portion(for the bushing) and a threaded piece on the bottom).  I need to
> know an easy way to remove the stabilizer link from the stabilizer bar, the
> bushing isn't worn enough to slide off over the flared end of the stabilizer
> bar and I don't want to remove the entire bar(and use a press) if I can
> avoid it.  A good trick would be real welcome(also for the reverse
> installation).
>
> Thanks for any suggestions.
>
> John