damn kick starter spring

[skid jackson]

so I have to replace this thing on my 11 250 ....
I won't get into why this is still an issue .....
my question is I have to pull the clutch basket
I don't have a clutch basket tool, or air gun, or welder to make my own tool ....
can I use a piston stop to keep things from moving
or do I have to go buy a clutch tool

part 2
my kicker engages about halfway through the stroke. its an irritatingly small range of "power", my 06 300 had a full stroke. is this lack of kick stroke something new or is it the result of a few skips of the engagement gear and when I open it up I'll be able to reset it and get the full kick again??