Hi John,

 

I had the same question.  It was pointed out to me that using the over center link works very well.  Disconnect the overcenter link from the landing gear.  It comes down enough so you can easily attach the gas strut with out having to compress it.  With the gas strut attached to the over center link, the it  becomes the tool and makes a great lever to then compress the strut as you align the holes to reattach it to the landing gear.

 

I never saw this solution my self as I tried many things to strong arm the gas strut when I had to reattach it to the over center link.  Justin at lancair pointed this out to me when out of concern of bruised hands and broken skin I gave him a ring. 

 

I still kick myself for not seeing it as a good solution earlier…..good luck

 

Kevin