Is it detrimental at all to the valve train if I install stiffer springs and retainers and then put the stock cams back in. I'm doing this so I can have my shop degree my new stage 2 cams and not have to charge me for the spring and retainer installation.

 

To clarify, are you talking about swapping out the valvetrain at your house, dropping the stock cams in and then driving it to the shop so they can swap in the bigger cams? I don't see why there would be a problem.

How much are they wanting for the spring install? You'll have to buy the tools to do it yourself, it may end up being a wash (although I agree, I would generally rather buy the tools and do it myself for the same price).

 

Better to install the springs/retainers and cams in one shot and tow the car to the dyno. Forgo the degreeing and 'play' with the cam settings on the dyno.

Do it right, do it once, and pay for what you only need.