Just thought I'd add to this old thread since I did this job with the pedal cluster in the car yesterday after my spring broke a couple of months ago.
I tried the washer trick first but no bueno for me. Went with J.W.'s advice and went to the FLAPS, bought a brake spring tool, modified it and had the spring installed in 1 minute. Works like a charm. However, be aware that you'll need an angle grinder and 15-30 mins to make the tool first
Pic of mine below.
