Shortening springs

I need to make a couple of springs for my Super C brakes. I've had occasional success in the past by cutting the spring to the right length, heating and bending a new hook in the end. But more often, it breaks after a few uses. Any tips on tempering it so it won't break?

Can't find the right size locally, and would like to get it back together without waiting on parts.

Thanks,
Bill

In 1992, I paid CaseIH over $25. each for those. It's now 14 years since I installed them, thus I can give a testimonial, they will last at least 35% as long as the originals. But then I do have some older originals still going.

In the long term, I find parts that CaseIH still supply are most economical for me. I rarely go elsewhere unless it's something they no longer supply.