What retainers do you guys prefer? To be more specific, has anyone out there had significant problems with either brand, used TiN/ shot-peening/ cryogenics to harden them, etc.. My setup is TODA Cs, valve springs, cam gears and 12.3:1 pistons, probably stock valves, and either one or the other brand of retainers. I did a few searches but did not find many reviews from people who had used either brand of retainer for any considerable amount of time. I'm interested in how each holds up after being used for ~ 1 year (roughly 12-15,000 miles) with some daily driving and a little track use thrown in that time frame as well. I'd plan on replacing the retainers on a yearly basis (at least) anyways but was just curious what you guy's opinions were.

 

While in the industry, I sold a lot of Skunk2 retainers and Portflow retainers(old design). At the time we pushed the Skunk2 retainers a lot because they fit the best. The Skunk2 retainers had a lip machined that would fit snug in the crown of the inner spring. I found Crower's retainers to be a bit on the thin side and used them seldom. Never have I seen premature wear on any of the aformentioned brands. Although if you plan on replacing them on a yearly basis, I feel that you should be comfortable with most brands out there. However, the new Portflow design(about 8 months past) features a slightly thicker retainer which is stronger than most and can withstand the added pressure from the high-lift cams found widely in today's market. These retainers also featured the machined lip that fits nicely in the inner spring. If you want more in depth information regarding these retainers, speak with Tom at Portflow.

-Brandon

 

Good info. Thanks!

 

Anytime

 

The New JUN Type 2 retainers are good, they are TiN coated so you dont get that rediculous wear, they changed their retainer design due to their weaksauce previous retainers.

 

i have jun retainers with the jun 3 cams and havent ad a single problem with them since install about 2 yrs ago! i tend to drive the **** out of it from time to time!!

 

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