How do I reinstall lock plate+carrier assembly on telescoping steering wheel?

[delasoul1985]

I took apart my steering wheel column on my 1984 Cadillac deville in order to change the turn signal switch. I finished and reassembled most everything with a bit of difficulty but I am unable to reinstall the lock plate and carrier assembly because it requires way too much force to compress the spring by hand in order to insert the C clamp. I cannot use the steering shaft as a leverage point with a steering wheel puller as it slides rides out because it is of the telescoping kind. The c clamp which locks the lock plate in is the only thing that keeps it from sliding out (once its actually in). How can I get the necessary torque needed to compress the spring enough to get the C 'clamp' in?! Thanks.
I have tried using lock plate remover as an extremely sturdy mount to try and shove the spring back but it just is not possible. Two extremely strong young men have tried their hardest. Also, maybe I wasnt clear in my clarification that I am not able to use a lock plate installer in the normal method because the steering shaft is not locked in at all, so there is no means for torque! It will not be locked in until the lock plate is compressed and secured with the c clamp.
I have tried using lock plate remover as an extremely sturdy mount to try and shove the spring back but it just is not possible. Two extremely strong young men trying as hard as they can with about 4 inches of towels to absorb the pressure pain... its just not feasable. Also, maybe I wasnt clear in my stating that I am not able to use a lock plate installer in the usual method because the steering shaft is not locked in at all, so there is no means for torque! It will not be locked in until the lock plate is compressed and secured with the c clamp.