a few tips:
I bought a pair of sleder spring compressors at advance auto, they weren't expensive ($20-30 IIRC). They fit into the wheel well. (I've even made them "shorter" by using 5" long PCV pipe pieces between the bottom clamp and the bottom end of the threaded rod).
having a (possibly fat) buddy step on the LCA while you're positioning might do the trick as well.
if the CV joint has popped out (you can feel it through the boot), kneel down, align the halfshaft up level and against your right shoulder and do a quick pushing move - it'll slide right in.
and just to cheer you up - you're the lucky one, I've replaced the stock zetec springs for SVT ones and I can tell you it's way easier to work with the stockies...
Tiv
