Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): large tension springs, tension springs, spring tension

Question
I have a troy-bilt riding mower, today it just stopped moving while my wife was mowing. With a little investigation I found the large pulley that receives drive from the motor and sends it via a second belt to the rear end was seized. There are 2 large tension springs preventing me from taking the pulley out. How do you remove these springs.  One is huge and the other one is smaller but I can't budge either one.

Answer
Can you remove the belts from the pulleys to relieve some the spring tension?

I have several special tools I have made and purchased to remove the springs.  Basically the tools constist of a hook on one end and a large T handle on the other end to pull springs and release tension.

Can you send me the mower model number located on a sticker on the back of the mower so I can look up the parts list to provide a better answer.
Eric