[bobbader]

The short answer is ................ you almost can't go too far with the spreader. After initial engagement enough to hold the spreader firmly inside the spring eyes, even a few turns will ease the tension. This does not mean you have made it "safe enough to undo the shackles. So, keep going until you can push, front to back, on the top of the spring and "wiggle" the whole assembly a bit at the shackles. At this point, you've pretty much relieved enough tension to start removing the shackles. REMEMBER, there is still some danger involved, as the combination of the spring spreader and the spring itself is quite a bit of weight ........... and it's ALL IRON. Fingers can easily get in the way. Undo only one side first until the shackle is completely out. After this, you can more easily remove the second shackle while balancing the weight and girth of the spring & spreader combination that now wants to act as a fulcrum in multiple directions.

Once both shackles are out, if you intend to dismantle the spring prior to restoring/replacing shackles, carefully back off on the spring spreader adjuster until it safely relieves itself. In this contracted position, the spring will have to be re-spread at least 6 inches to re-install the shackles. The spring spreader is a life saver. This doesn't mean you should proceed with speed in any part of this operation.

MOST IMPORTANTLY ............Doing this for the first time, it will be extremely helpful to have a strong helper to "spot you" ............ if for nothing other than "safety in numbers". Along the way, feel out when 4 hands are Too Many but know that the safety another person standing there ........ "just in case"............ is a worthwhile addition.