Thanks for the suggestions, Otto and Brendan.
Dan, knowing that the Herbrand 188 pliers are not intended for this particular job makes my brain hurt less.
That tool you attached a photo of looks as though it would replace several tools I used to have for working on Bendix brakes. It looks like a good investment.
I will go the route of stretching the spring with pliers or vice grips, which I remember doing with the Bendix brakes before I got the tools to do it more easily.
Of course, now I am wondering what specific job the Herbrand 188 pliers were intended for! Does anyone know?
