coil spring compressor?

[PSV]

What type of spring compressor works well on 1st gen camaro? I am having a heck of a time getting my subframe together as I can't seem to find a spring compressor that works with my set up. I am trying to install hotchkis 2" drop BB coil spings in a 69 camaro subframe with DSE upper and lower control arms. The local parts stores all had the same type tool which has the center bolt and two hooks on top and a fork shaped plate on the bottom. I could not get this to work as it would not compress the spring enough in the position it needed to be in an still be able to remove it once I was done. This seems so basic, but I have wasted two evening messing with this and I want to purchase one that others have used. The frame is off the car so I can't use the weight of the car a tool, LOL.