how do you get the spring off the parking brake cable

At the end of the cable attached to the lever in the drum is a spring.
is there an easy way to get that off? or do I have to cut a coil so I can thread it off?

Slip a hollow sleeve over the end of the cable to release the locking dogs where it joins the drum.

Copper tubing the right diameter, something similar or even a socket can work.

With a socket, you may have to spin it by hand to release all the dogs.

I use a deep well socket so I can hold it better.

But no matter what you use, apply gentle pressure to the cable on the back of the plate so you can feel it when the locking dogs start to release & then wiggle it out from there.

no I got the cable out of the drum.

the end of the cable has a spring on it. I need to pull the spring off.
I am converting to disc brakes, and it says I have to pull the spring or it might bind on something.

The only way to get it off is to cut it. The thing at the end of the cable is permanently attached to it.

thanks. I was afraid of that. just hoping for an easier way out, but ok.