this is also called the over center return spring & what a mother it is. by removing the pedal stop i thought id have enough room to slip the spring off but no way. is there a special tool or technique im overlooking?

 

I have usually had to pull the pedal assy out from dash to do any work on that spring. I installed a stick in a truck years back and pull the assy to put it together.

I just did my '67 and did not pull the assy. I did not install that spring...no way to get it in there. Like you said..it's the mother load of springs!