Are there any spacers on either end of the spring? You may be able to remove them to reduce the height. I agree that looks way too high, it would be hard to pick and keep a finger on that.

Lots of info here from someone in your situation:
https://www.thegearpage.net/board/in...2096641/page-2

You could also get a Soft Touch spring to replace the factory one:
http://store.reverendguitars.com/pro...-touch-spring/