[alexiskai]

I didn't go all the way with removing the spring, but to take the load off the spring what I did was:

1. Loosen the lug nuts
2. Prepare some jack stands at their max extension
3. Put a floor jack under the differential
4. Raise the differential until the frame is at the level of the jack stands
5. Get the jack stands under the frame
6. Remove the wheels
7. Lower the floor jack

At this point there is no weight on the spring; you should be able to attach the spreader, remove the U-bolts and shackles, and pull it out.