How to remove hood springs?

Hi all! I have a 1969 Barracuda with a stock type steel hood on it. I just received my Glasstek fiberglass super stock hood, and bolted it on to see how it looked. I can't even budge it with the stock springs, without feeling like I'm going to bust the glass hood in half. I wanted to know if I have to change the hinges entirely or can I just remove the springs and use a prop rod to open the hood? If so, how do I go about removing the springs, as it appears they are hidden and the front end might have to come off to access them? I don't know why these hinges can't be simple like GM and Ford with a spring right out in the open for easy access and changing! :violent1: