I have the new longer bands springs, and having a heck of a time compressing them enough to fit between the band ears. Any tricks?

Try compressing them in a vise and using a nylon wire tie to hold it together, then install it in the tranny, once in place cut and remove the wire tie.

I use wood band liners, and last time around I just left the springs out.

rdr

I hope you have stuffed rags around the drums and gears to keep anything you drop from going into the tranny! Good luck!!

Rags are a good idea, but you should first disconnect the battery. Count the rags when you put them in and count them when you pull them out.

And don't forget to take them out!

Rick,
Let me know if you ever have a problem with the low pedal sticking down or the reverse pedal sticking down. The springs are to assure that the bands won't drag on the drums when the pedals are up.
Norm

Nope, no problem. Drove it just this morning. . I think I left the spring on the brake, to aid the return of the outside brake actuation.

Sticking down is usually from bands too loose, which the kevlar people do. The spring won't help once you get the pedal shaft cams out.

rdr