When I removed my stock spring, there was enough compression to make them shoot out, even with the a-arm at full droop. Now it wasn't with huge force, but it was with enough force to ding the lip of my fender well if I didn't have the moving blanket in place. The rope was definitely overkill, but I figured it's always better to be safe than sorry...
Now my aftermarket springs actually fall out due to their shorter stance. Front-end
suspension work is much easier/safer now!
I'll try to post some pictures of my car with the front end taken apart for reference. Unfortunately, I'm at work... (obviously not working though...)