how to remove valve springs??

so just like any other question I ask,,, "how do I..." , "how do I..." , "how do I..." In response to my low compression results I discovered over christmas break, I'm going to lap the valves and purchase all new rings. Also plan to hone the cylinder jugs this weekend too.

The kind of spring compression tool I got was this


I realize the split collets hold the cap down so all I need to do is force the cap down with the tool compressing the springs. Question is will this tool I borrowed from Harbor Freight work? Confused how the lips on the tool can reach behind the cap covering the springs, since these heads are so small. With just a small clearance of about 1/4" or less between spring and head wall. Show me what you have used.. please? and thanks in advance!

EDIT**
After reading the Haynes manual it says "Because of the cylinder head design, modification of an existing valve spring compressor may be necessary so that it clears the high walls of the cam and valve spring compartments." Also it shows a picture with a caption "Assemble valve spring compressor and release collets" What am I missing?

 

I'm assuming you have the head off. So I did some Googling (best friend beside search function) and found this.
The one you have is for an automobile application where the springs are more exposed.

 

thanks Maxim-x for the quick response.. yep I figured the one I have is for more exposed springs. so its useless? gonna take a look in the garage and see if dad has a big enough c-clamp. better question is if not, than any suggestions where this might be? even autostores like Autozone didn't have a valve spring compressor for rent so i'm sure I wouldn't be able to find something like this

 

The Autozone guy had his head where the sun don't shine.

I've BORROWED the correct type from my local AZ before. Try a different store... or a NAPA.

The type of valve spring compressor you need is like the one in Max-X's first pic; it has a tubular "business end" with the sides cut out of the tube so you can manipulate the collets.

They're not uncommon; a LOT of DOHC cars require the same type; the only real challenge should be finding the correct diameter "end" bit. You should be able to borrow or rent one somewhere, relatively easily.

 

Get a deep socket and rap it with a hammer down onto the top retainer. Works like a charm and doesn't require much force at all.

 

Doesn't do much good on the reinstallation though...

 

suppose I'll do some searching and bring the head with me. think there's one motorcycle shop in town or the napa autoshop that may be able to give me a hand for a few extra bucks *hopefully. its just a modified c-clamp, problem is finding one around here to accomplish the job this weekend since I'm home for school

on bigger and better news, I'm honing the cylinder jugs and wanted a reminder of what my steps would be after that... (in the time to come whenever I get a chance to come back home)
1. order standard size rings from chacal
2. ring gap check with new rings in the newly honed jugs
3. install new rings on all four pistons
4. put the head back on after lapping the valves and replacing valve seals
5. or 3.5. put new gaskets in between
6. put valve cover back on, and pray the $300 maintennance overhaul has provided me with much better compression results.

Any other steps that need to be taken before #1?

 

When I did mine I used a standard C-clamp and a small piece of PVC pipe with a 'window' cut out of it. Worked pretty good!

 

i actually cut a socket and welded it to an appropriately sized c-clamp to make a better than store bought shim under bucket style valve spring compressor.

 

i like that idea! thanks for the help so far guys

 

That's the normal method I use

He didn't ask about getting them back on :lol:

 

For those of you who have the XJCD set, there's a file on there that addresses this. From the main menu, click "Engine and Transmission", then you'll see an item labeled "Ken's Shop-built valve spring compressor".

The text:

"It is a 3/4" x 4" pipe nipple that I bought at the local hardware store for
0.89$ + taxes = 1.03$ Can and a woodworking bar clamp. Cut a slot down each side of the nipple about .25" - .375" wide and made the end which will sit on the spring a little larger, like a pear or tear drop. Drill a
hole thru the nipple at the other end so you attach it to a bar clamp with some wire, allowing you to have two hands to compress the spring.

Ken Van Barneveld
'82 XJ650RJ"

There are pictures, as well.

 

quick update: got all springs removed using stevestrom's idea. it worked like a charm and with the "window" cut in the pvc, I should be able to put the collets back in place just fine with just a little more tedious handwork.
if anyone is curious as to what exactly I handmade, let me know I can take a picture of it. thanks guys for the help!

 

Hello Moellear-hey I sure would like to see a pic of that. & what size PVC? Thanks for postin. WJ

 

so here's what I was able to put together. Simply a 3/4" pvc pipe with a washer taped on the top for structural support. The C-clamp, which has to be 6" or longer, was bending the pvc so a washer distributed the force better. many thanks to stevestrom for the easy idea!



for bigger pics see my photobucket album

 

moellear- some great pics in your album. thank you very much & good luck with your build!