New problem - brake spring

[investig8]

Hello again to everyone...
I encountered a new problem which I feel that certainly someone has encountered and can provide some direction... I am replacing brakes, including cylinders, shoes and springs. My problem is finding a spring plier that is large enough to work. I purchased one at a local auto parts store that lasted about 3 minutes before I broke it. I then ordered a larger "truck" brake spring plier but find that it does not spread wide enough to install the spring....
Help?

[RCrombie]

This may not be the approved method, but here’s what I did. First I adjusted the cams all the way in, then got a nice BIG set of vice grips and clamped them on the end of the spring sideways. Then, using them as a handle I pulled the spring into position. Sounds simple but I do remember those springs being pretty strong.

[investig8]

Thanks, that's exactly how I was taught by my father. I'm working on modifying the spring plier I bought, but at the end of the day I may just need a bigger set of vice grips and hammer! LOL!

[investig8]

Good News... Brake springs are installed. My modification to the tool worked well! Yea!!

[RCrombie]

Haha nice work!

[Cal_Gary]

Mine is similar to Rob's. I clamp down a pair of vise grips on the spring stem then use a long prybar against the vise grips and hub to leverage the spring end into place. This works ONLY if the shoes will stay upright.
Gary

[RCrombie]

Also, be sure to wear eye protection. A good friend of mine lost his eye from one of those springs.