I did use the long bolt method Adrian, but still found I needed to compress the springs by over an inch to get them to fit between the hub and the upper mounting. Working in the confines of my small, single garage I used my modified spring compressors (that I used years ago to replace the front springs on my Mk2 Cortina 1600E - oh, happy days...)and had no problems in the end, but yes, it can be a dangerous undertaking if they're not engaged securely!
All is now well, however, as new chrome kingpins, bushes and steering bearings all fitted and performing well.