Timing belt replacement problem

I am trying to replace my timing belt and tensioner. Finally I got everything off and was trying to put on the new tensioner. However, the spring won't go back on. I need to somehow compress the spring to fit it back on. Easier said than done. I tried every type of pliers and hose clamp and nothing works. I spent too many hours on this lousy one dollar spring. There has to be an easy way to get the spring back on . NO book or manuel talks about putting the spring back on. I can't believe no one has a problem putting the spring back on. If your chaning the tensioner you can't avoid taking the spring off. ANy help is appreciated 2002 hyundai accent 1.6L