Motorcycle Repair: Side-Stand (Kick Stand), flat washers, auto parts stores

Question
I have a 1984 VT700 Shadow and I just replaced the Kick Stand or Side Stand and just need to know the easiest way to attach the spring.

Answer
Jim, I have automotive brake spring tool, available for sale and maybe for rent at auto parts stores who loan tools.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Snap-on-Tools-Hook-End-Bendix-Brake-Spring-Removal-Repla   Item number 330874442119 (the system truncated my original URL) as an example.

There is another "trick" that sometimes works....

Take the spring and drive pennies or flat washers in between the coils, which will lengthen the spring out, sometimes enough to get it to catch both ends. Using Vise-Grips can help the process, as well. Lay the bike over against a wall, in gear (with padding), so you can get good access to the spring and stand.

Bill Silver