04' ZTR 36" tension spring replacement

[gopher501]

Hello all, New to forum. I just bought an 03'/04' 36" ZTR. The tension spring in the back snapped. Not able move at all. Controls drive belt?? (Not real familiar with these mowers) anyway I cannot for the life of me figure out how you are supposed to get that new spring stretched between the 2 hooks..... Any help/advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

 

[mechanic mark]

If you have a brake shoe installation tool for automobile they work well as do a long prybar or screwdriver, SAFETY FIRST, wear safety glasses & mechanics gloves.

 

[Bill Paul]

Sometimes it's easier to take belt off pulley, attach spring, then put belt back onto pulley.