They aren't that bad to compress by hand. I can push them together with one end in each hand, but I'm kind of a freak. If all else fails you, use your body weight to compress with one end on the ground. It'll take several seconds for it to extend again, should be enough time to get everything where you need it. The bottom bolt goes in while the shock is in motion.

1990 Montero RS (In pieces... for now)

KG6VNX