I am replacing hammer butt springs and have noticed that the new
springs, although the same gauge as the old, are quite a bit stiffer
than the springs that were removed.  I assume that, over a period of
some 70 odd years, the old springs lost some tension.

The old springs also had a bit of rust which would lead me to believe
that the springs were also somewhat corroded, contributing to the loss
of tension.  The position of the new springs when mounted is also a bit
different from the position of the old springs.

Is there to be some bending that will be required, or is this just due
to the fact that these springs are new?  Any help to clear my confusion
would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Iran Ausley