Trick to removing (& installing) clutch return spring
 

I know there must be an easier way than trying to yank this out. I thought about wedging pieces into the expanded spring, but can't figure out a good way. Any BTDTs?

FWIW, I recall a previous thread related to this that mentioned inserting coins(pennies) into the coils with the spring expanded by depressing the clutch lever. I haven't tried it but it certainly makes sense.

Found the best thread on this:
http://forums.pelicanparts.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=159061&perpage=20&highl ight=clutch%20return%20spring%20install%20remove&p agenumber=1

I just did my pedal cluster last week... I used the washer idea found on this board, made this job a piece of cake. Everything else rebuilding the cluster was harder.

Just get the pedal cluster out - sping and all. Put it in a bench vise, or clamp it down. Get a bunch of washers - 1" - 1.5" dia if possible. When you are ready - pull the clutch pedal forward, jamb washers between the spring coils from both sides, use a light tap with a hammer to get more in. Then when the spring is about as full as its gonna get flip one end off of its hook with a screw driver - I was able to do it by hand.

Putting it back on is ever easier - just slip it over both pins, pull the clutch pedal and give the washers a tap - they will fall out leaving your spring right where it should be. Awesome idea - I wish I thought of it.

Do a search for a photo - I have a photo I took when I did it if you need one. Good luck.

#@$%^$% Spring..........
 

When I rebuilt the pedal cluster in my car, I put the cluster back in the car and then used a home made tool to reinstall the return spring. The tool was made by cutting off one handle of a brake spring tool. It has a scooped out spot on one end and is "S" shaped. To install the spring, hook the front end of the spring over its post, hook the back end of the spring over the tool and then hook the scooped out part over the mounting stud and lever the spring into place. You will probably have to make the attempt more than one time, but with the leverage of the tool, it is not too hard to extend the spring. Be certain that the spring will slide easily on the tool. You may need to grind the sides down slightly to keep the spring from binding.
http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1176934156.jpg
Version 1 of the tool
http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1176934174.jpg
Version 2 of the tool

Good Luck!