Re-assembly tow damper bar problem

[crankedup]

This may not be the correct forum but here goes - I had to remove the damper rod from the draw bar to my vintage caravan, this rod is in one solid piece with a fixed (by two bolts) steel collar midway along its length. A strong damper coiled spring slides over the rod and one is fitted either end of the steel collar, these act as the damper when towing. Re-assembly is simple enough, at the front end of the damper rod is a square section steel block which slides into the draw bar square section of the chassis, this steel block is drilled and accepts the damper rod to slide through it, the steel block has two holes which correspond with two holes in draw bar that accepts bolts holding the whole thing in place. Likewise the rear section is identical. My problem is compressing the spring at the front enough to align the holding bolts. Once the damper rod is inserted into the chassis I am unable to attach or detach coil clamps. I need to compress the 'steel block' against the front damper spring and cannot find anything I could use to help do the job. I have looked at a 'G' clamp but cannot find one long enough, 12 inch clamps are out there but sods law I need minimum 13 inch clamp. Hope this makes sense and any suggestions/advise appreciated.
I asked Indesuspension if they could assist but they could not on this occasion.

[Steve_D]

A lump of fence post back to a chassis cross member or the axle then a bottle or scissor jack at the working end.

I take it you can't put the hitch on yet and pull with the car against chocked van wheels.

Steve

[crankedup]

Thanks for reply Steve D, my very detailed question produces a very simple solution to my problem. I couldn't see the solution at all!! and yet now you have pointed it out to me its so simple. Thanks again.

Yup can't pull forward to do the job owing to the double spring malarky, I did consider reversing with chocked wheels but its a bit scary, it could end in disater. So fence post and jack it is.

Edited by crankedup on Sunday 21st November 19:24

[Steve_D]

Is it too late to add a Health & safety caveat?

Steve

[crankedup]

What could possibly go wrong!