I compress my springs as far as I can. Then I pound the strut free from the knuckle with a piece of BRASS. it usually makes it about right to the very bottom of the strut. Then I just tap the knuckle to the right or left and the strut will come right out of the knuckle. Installation is much easier with the lowering springs on. I'll be replacing my H&R's with GC's soon I should take pics
