[EDIT] this should probably be moved to N00b Talk ... spotted it afterwards
To get started, I have some knowledge of mechanics (and electronics, electricity, woodworking and general stuff-fixing) but am quite new to big bolts and heavy springs. So be nice.
It started with a simple wish: getting my 04'GV lifted. Went for the 2" dobinsons kit.
Got some tools and a friend to help.
Read a LOT about the operation on these forums. Was prepared. or was I ...
My GV was previously fitted with super-stiff springs and lovells shocks (discovered that during the swap) and it required quite a bit of flex to get the old springs out and the new ones in.
We had some tools. But not a garage. It took us 5 hours to do the front wheels only.
During that time, I managed to flex the front left cv a bit too much and it popped ... impossible to put it back. We had to open it to re-fit it. That means removing the CV entirely from both ends (unbolt from the transmission coupler off the diff) ... time-consuming and risky operation.
But, we managed to put it all back together. And re-seal it (will have to check that again just in case)
Still have to adjust the camber a bit and replace a washer that went missing when re-assembling the sway bar (is it ?) to the lower arms.
And, still have to do the rear.
Overall, I did learn a lot of things (that was the objective, along with saving some $$$) but I also see why it's a not such a bad idea to pay someone with tools and all the setup to do it.
Essential things that are needed (I learned)
- space (well lit, sheltered from elements) -> couldn't find one, Did it outside and finished with a torch at 8PM
- tools (jacks, spanners, torque wrench) -> had some. Picked up a 12v portable impact wrench that helped a lot but still a far cry from the real deal
- time -> really thought 5 hours would be enough to do all of it. nope.
- more tools, ie spring compressors -> only ones we found seemed decent but became clearly bent when compressing, denting the paint of the springs. did the job but ...
- experience -> had some (friend is a mech) but can never have too much
Conclusion, I was prepared but ... stuff happens.
I still have to do the back. Any advice on this ? I was told the front is probably the most painful. Looking back at it, even the front struts top bolts went away easy enough with that electric imapct wrench.
Do you guys think I can manage the back by myself ? or should I expect more trouble ? ( I will have a look anyways)
Anything specific to look out for ?
PS: be nice to the noob, I only want to learn
and I did, a lot.
job done 
