D47U Steering Lever Springs

I wanted to get the D4 out yesterday and pulled back on the right hand clutch and the spring has broke from age. It looks like the only way to replace it is to pull the transmission/final drive cover off which is a major job. Has anyone had to replace these springs and is there anyway do do this without pulling the cover. I haven't checked with Cat yet to see if I can still get them. The D4 is a 1950 model/SN#12897.
Thanks,
dpull

yes cat still has them and yes you have to remove the trans cover takes about 4 hrs