[70 vert]

A friend asked me to replace the rear struts and shocks on a 2004 Grand Prix. Is there anything I need to know gefore attempting this? I beleive I need to compress the strtus to install them. Is there a simple tool to compress them? Something like a regular spring compressor? I don't want to agree to do the work and then be in over my head...

[Lightfoot]

The best gadget to compress the springs on struts is a wall mounted strut spring compressor. I don't know if you could make a conventional spring compresssor work the way you need it. It might work, but it would be a PITA.
There is also a special ratchet tool that has a hollow socket so you can HOLD the strut piston while you remove the big nut. On the end of the piston, there is either a hex socket, torx socket, or male torx tip that you use an E-socket to hold.

You might check the local shops in your area that do that kind of work, to see if they will let you change your springs over to the new struts for a nominal fee.