Hey 911,
Dont despair !!
i have stuffed up like this a few times especially with real big seals, one was 12" diameter.
Your biggest problem will be if the old spring has stretched over time. On a few occasions I have very carefully undone the spring ~ it has a cone ending where it screws into itself to make the circle. undo that & you can cut 1/4" off the spring & screw it back together. That way the spring will be tight on the seal.
To put the spring back in, best get one bit of it in place & then gradually work it back into place from both sides. A bit like putting a tire on a rim. Jewelers screwdrivers are good. So are dentists tools ( not having a go at you ~ they are great for fiddly work like this).

__________________
Grumpy Old Diesel Owners Club group

I no longer question authority, I annoy authority. More effect, less effort....

1967 230-6 auto parts car. rust bucket.
1980 300D now parts car 800k miles
1984 300D 500k miles
1987 250td 160k miles English import
2001 jeep turbo diesel 130k miles
1998 jeep tdi ~ followed me home. Needs a turbo.
1968 Ford F750 truck. 6-354 diesel conversion.
Other toys ~J.D.,Cat & GM ~ mainly earth moving