Hope this helps.
Just changed the hood springs on my 55 series 2.
If you look at the springs when the hood is open, they are closed. That is to say no gaps between the spring coils. On the other hand, when the hood is closed the spring stretches and there are gaps.
Lower the hood just enough so you can reach in and push 6 to 8 washers into the gaps. Then open the hood. The springs with washers will fall out of the hinges.
Install the same washers in the new springs. I used a chain hoist and stretched the springs with two tow ropes and the bumper of my SUV. Then open the hood all the way and put the springs with washers in place. When you close the hood the washers will fall out and the springs are "installed". EASY, and only takes about 15 minutes.
