yes the front panel needs to come off. to refit the spring I tie a piece of wire to the hook end loosen a weight bolt, wrap the wire around the weight bolt then tighten it, lets you use both hands to pull the spring down.
That’s correct same procedure as a Bosch, front panel off etc, good tip from Cab, or if the man of the house is about ask him to help with rear retaining spring have done this before and generally they are standing watching you anyway.