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procyon · Posted: Sat Dec 19, 2015 10:50 am Post subject: Valve Spring compressing

So I have a 2.0 NA motor apart and I need to replace the valve stems seals.
I built a valve spring compressor using a 6" throat F style woodworkers clamp and a piece of 1.25" steel tubing. Everything lines up nicely and is square and true. The problem that I am having is the springs does not seem to compress at all. I have applied enough pressure to bend the clamp but the spring retainer doesn't move at all. I have seen pictures of people using a similar setup and they had success. Should this method work? Or am I doing something wrong?
How much pressure is required to compress the valve springs?

I have worked on other valve setups and this one seems awfully stiff. I don't want to apply more pressure without some second opinions.

On a related note: The Haynes manual and an old magazine article posted on this site mention a small plastic tube that is slipped over the valve stem while installing valve seals so that the seal is undamaged. My gasket set from Victor Reinz does not include this part. Is there a work around or just don't worry about it? The top of the valve stem does seem quite sharp and capable of damaging the seal.
_________________
1981 924 N/A (Now the parts car)
1980 924 N/A ( 5 bolt discs and better paint) MS II V3.57
2003 Subaru Baja
2021 Maxda CX-30

Paul · Posted: Sun Dec 20, 2015 11:46 am Post subject:

Tap the top of the valves with a brass hammer to free up the keepers.

Use assembly lube to protect the seals.
_________________
White 87 924S "Ghost"
Silver 98 986 3.6l 320 HP "Frank N Stein"
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Owned and repaired 924s since 1977
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procyon · Posted: Mon Dec 21, 2015 2:31 am Post subject:

Ok I'll try the brass hammer. I think I have one, if not Christmas list just got a bit longer.

Thanks
_________________
1981 924 N/A (Now the parts car)
1980 924 N/A ( 5 bolt discs and better paint) MS II V3.57
2003 Subaru Baja
2021 Maxda CX-30

924RACR · Posted: Mon Dec 21, 2015 10:57 pm Post subject:

Actually, better to hit the springs, not the valves. Use a socket to clear around the valve stem.

It also helps to hit the keepers with a small amount of PB Blaster; they can get an accumulation of crud in there, helps them stick...
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Vaughan Scott
Webmeister
'79 924 #77 SCCA H Prod racecar
'82 931 Plat. Silver
#25 Hidari Firefly P2 sports prototype