hey guys, what tool is needed to do a valve spring and retainer installation?

 

nebody know what tools are needed? nebody at all

 

You need a type of C-clamp to get them out, try looking at Jegs or Summit for the tools.

 

i'm assuming you're asking about the LS head.

their are two types of tools you can use. one you take off the head and use a large C-clamp looking device. the other one (you leave the head on) lays across where your cams usually go, and uses leverage to push the springs down. i have not done it myself yet (i need to soon), but I am interested to know what someone who has done it on an LS head would have to say/recommend.

I know that standard valve spring compressor tools might not fit, and I know there are several tricks people use to get this done. (like i heard you can leave the head on, and use the C-clamp if you're really good, but you might have to modify the tool)

Also, its important that if you leave the head on that you find a way to keep the valves in place so they can't fall down. You can use pressurized air (I've seen it done) or I heard that you can lay nylon rope in your spark plug hole and get that to push against the valves by rotating the crank (worth a try).

You should be able to find both tools pretty easily by doing a search on like Google, or Froogle. I hope this helps you some.

 

if ur gonna do it with the head on the car, then ur gonna need to get the SNAP-ON valve springs compressor . also ur gonna need to find a way to keep the valves up if ur do n it with the head on. compressed air works. u can also put string down in the cylinder and turn the engine to TDC for the Cylinder that ur working on. compressed air works best. thats what i used when i did my LS head. also a magnet pick up tool will be helpful in take n the keepers off.

i made my own version of the snap on tool, but it didnt work too well, but it did get the job done. heres a link of what the tool looks like. it cost about 100- 120 bucks. i made mine for $20
http://www.integra.orcon.net.nz/valvespring

 

It's real easy to do it if you take the cylinder head off.
The c-clamp spring compressor with the adapter that has the hole in it
works best.
Also, when putting the keepers back in, you can use vaseline to hold them
in place.

 

thanks fellas