Tool for spreading coil spring?

I just need to spread/expand a really strong spring 5 inches and re-hook it to the drum of a front-loading washing machine.

Can stick my arm in up to my elbow and grasp it, but spring is too strong to pull down and hook back into place.

Is there a tool for spreading and holding the spring while I maneuver it into place?

I just need to spread/expand a really strong spring 5 inches and re-hook it to the drum of a front-loading washing machine.

Can stick my arm in up to my elbow and grasp it, but spring is too strong to pull down and hook back into place.

Is there a tool for spreading and holding the spring while I maneuver it into place?