When I did my springs i did the balljoint method, it seems much easier for the front springs, but I never tried the other way.

 

I had eibach, i didit care much for them. If you care about your car and suspension at ALL i would advise you not to cut/heat or do ANYTHING to the factory springs to make it ride lower. Go with H&R springs!! how stiff do you want your car, and do you want any performance out of these new springs?