Soft Top Swing Arm

[vintagestg]

I'm trying to install a new swing arm on my 55 Bird and there's a spring that goes from the swing arm bracket to spring bolt. I'm having a hell of a time trying to get the spring stretched enough for it to reach both locations. Anyone had any luck with this?

 

[paul2748]

Did you get the springs in? It's actually a two man operation. Attach the rod to the spring and then grab the rod with a vise grip and stretch it so you can get the end of the rod into the hole. It's tough, but can be done. I'm 72 and I stretched it. Thus is where the second person comes into play - he has to screw on the nut while you are holding the rod in the hole.

Good luck