I have a 1991 Civic Hatch STD.

Can I remove the damper/spring assembly from the vehicle without a spring compressor?

Does it remain one unit?

I need to remove the assembly for the removal of the upper ball joint to replace it and it seems this would be the easiest since the metal piece going across the upper control arm under the fender won't come loose.

 

LOL!!!! yes it remains one unit aslong as you dont undo the nut that holds it together.for the front struts/springs.undo the 17mm bolt and nut on the lca that contects the fork.then undo the 2 14mm? nuts on the shock tower.DO NOT UNDO THE CENTER NUT THAT HOLDS THE ASSEMBLY TOGETHER.then step on your rotor and it should pop out.to take out your UCA undo the 17mm castle nut and cotter pin then theres 2 nuts below the shock tower in the engine bay thats hold the uca.undo those 2