Removing valve retainers from installed heads...
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Feb 2001
Posts: 217
Likes: 1
From: Suwanee GA
Removing valve retainers from installed heads...
I have to install the inner springs on my heads. I have never done this before when the heads on installed on the engine. Is it just a matter of putting air pressure in the cylinder and using a spring compressor? Any tips on the process?
Race Director
Joined: Dec 1999
Posts: 19,610
Likes: 778
From: Forked River NJ
That is how I have always done it. Some times the retainer sticks to the keepers a little and requires a slight rap to free the stuck retainer. Just watch out for the keepers. They are small and can get into spaces you do not want them to go. I use a magnet to hold onto them while removing.
Race Director
Joined: Jun 2000
Posts: 10,043
Likes: 674
From: FL
I just replaced my valve seals. All I did was rotate each cylinder to TDC in firing order and fed a little rope in as extra insurance. With the piston at TDC, the valve could drop maybe 1/2" maximum. Easy job. Took me about 5 1/2 hours to do all sixteen seals and I had never done it before. Agree with the magnet comment and remember to put some rags (clean) into the oil drain back holes to plug them before starting.
