Since I am replacing my headliner, and retrieved the small slider, the one that gets lost in the back. I made some clips to hold it in place of the arm it attaches to, but noticed the springs are broken and not long enough. Is there any reason for these springs, are they necessary. Attached is a picture with the part circled for better reference of what I am talking about.

Thanks Al

 

From an engineering point (I don't have such on my car), they appear to be support springs to lift the lid when it is being retracted. Thus they may also prevent excessive wear on any guides. So I'd say they are necessary and if not replaced, you'd be hauling it out fixing more than the springs in the future.

 

I am actually not sure what they do, but considering their strength, I am sure they do help lift something.
I side with Highhorse, should not take the risk to do it twice.