So how do I set the axle nut? I cant quite get the right angle to bend it down with a cold chisel. It sort of just drives it back but not down.

The one I removed looks like it was cut then bent. But there is no way to get a cutoff tool in there.

Also, for posterity, what i was able to do for a spring compressor is to use a couple of my vise grip welding C-clamps. I think they are the 3.5" jaws. Working with them together (clamp one, clamp two, clamp one, clamp two....) you can compress a couple of inches. Worked really well for reassembly..

Thanks,
Ted