64 Plymouth brake shoe hold down springs

Does anyone know of an easy way to install the rear hold down springs. The park brake levers make it a miserable job. I had a heck of a time with stretched out springs but I finally got some new ones and I'm not sure what kind of a tool to buy/make for the job.I'm sure I'll have a few bashed knuckles when I'm done no matter what though.
Any help is appreciated.
Thanks, Wally