Next, we removed the end link from the control arm itself with a 14 mm socket and wrench. We did this on both sides so that one side would not have more tension than the other. We found out that doing this reduced the amount of effort needed to remove the lower portion of the stock strut & spring from the lower control arm.

If you are doing this by yourself, then the removal of the link is a must. As you can see in the image, we succeeded in forcing it out, but it was way easier when we took off the sway bar link on the other side.