clutch over center spring

[Challenger in NC]

I have a B&B 3 finger clutch from Brewers and just recently installed it. However, I am having trouble installing the over center spring onto the front clutch pedal pin, I tried the washer method but found that cumbersome and it also prevented me from inserting the spring inside the pedal bracket. There is very little clearance between the OD of the spring and the inside of the bracket. I was also worried about removing the washers. Would I be asking for trouble if I left this spring out? I know the factory included it for a reason but I don't know that I am going to get it back in. Someone on another site mentioned using drum brake spring pliers or possibly loosening pedal bracket from firewall. Any suggestions?

[pschlosser]

The handle of those pliers may have the tool you want.  The handle tool is also available as a separate tool.  When you watch a "how to rebuild your drum brakes" video on YouTube, you can see how the tool works.

This lever tool has a flat notch at one end that hooks on to the peg you wish to install the spring on to.  The peg becomes the fulcrum of the lever.  You first run the shaft of the (handle or) tool through the end hook or eyelet of the spring, then further onto the peg with the notch facing the peg to hook on to it.  You then slide the spring up the shaft of the lever toward the peg, while simultaneously pulling the lever in the direction stretching the spring.  As you move the lever, the spring stretches further and further, moving toward the end of the shaft where the peg is hooked until BLINK, the end of the spring pops onto the peg.

[Chryco Psycho]

Yes you need that spring installed it helps depress the pedal making the load lighter & it lifts the pedal at the top to prevent pressure on the release brg when not depressing the clutch .
It can be tough to install in the car , with the pedals removed it installs easily .