MG Car Repair: 1972 Midget, hose clamp, mallot

Question
Howard,
I'm doing a complete restoration on a 1972 Midget and am currently combining the best parts out of 2-available transmissions; so far my biggest hold up is trying to get the springs, balls and plunger back into the 1st and 2nd gear Syncro hub; whats the secret? Beyond that what less obvious yet critical things should I be aware of?
Thanks for your assistance.
Guy

Answer
Hi Guy,
There is a special tool to reload the balls and springs but we didn't have one even at the dealerships I worked at so the best thing is a large hose clamp from any auto parts store. Insert the springs and balls and tighten the clamp and bump the hub into place with a rubber mallot or a hammer using a block of wood so as not to damage the hub.
Howard