How To Use A Valve Spring Compressor

Engine & Frazzle / Tech / Tech Articles

Quick Tech: The 10 Commandments of Handling Valve Springs

Posted by on September 6, 2013 at 9:55 am

Paradigm/COMP Cams

Valve springs are the highest stressed component in your engine. That's why companies similar COMP Cams and Summit Racing stress the importance of properly handling your valve springs before, during, and subsequently installation. We consulted COMP Cams for some handling tips to ensure maximum spring life.

First, double check to brand sure your springs are correct for your application. Do Not Modify YOUR VALVE SPRINGS IN ANY Manner TO FIT YOUR ENGINE.
Never place your valve springs in a vise, grab them with pliers, or hit them with a hammer as this will impairment the surface of the spring and possibly cause the spring to fail.
Handle the springs as little as possible to forbid impairment or dropping.
When separating double or triple springs, use only a durable plastic object that cannot damage the shot-peened surface of the jump. Never use a tool or hard metal object like a screwdriver!
The surface is the virtually critical office of the valve springs, so requite the surface of the springs a one time-over to wait for whatever rust or corrosion that could compromise immovability.
Do not clean valve springs with acidic or evaporative cleaners. This causes rapid drying and promotes the germination of rust on the surface, which tin cause catastrophic failures. Virtually valve springs are shipped with a rust preventative coating that should remain on the spring throughout engine assembly.
Article of clothing gloves when handling springs to forbid acids and oils on your hands from corroding the wire.
Keep the springs oiled at all times. When installing springs, apply valvetrain assembly spray to ease assembly and improve the life of the spring.
Piece of work smart by using the right tools for the chore. The proper tools and hardware, including a good-quality valve bound compressor tool, will ensure the springs are installed with equally little stress as possible
To properly pause in your newly installed valve springs, run your newly installed valve springs through one oestrus bike at a maximum of one,500-2,000 rpm until the engine warms up so allow your engine absurd down.

Tags: COMP Cams, Peak Racing, valve springs, valvetrain

Writer: David Fuller David Fuller is OnAllCylinders' managing editor. During his twenty-year career in the auto industry, he has covered a variety of races, shows, and industry events and has authored manufactures for multiple magazines. He has also partnered with mainstream and trade publications on a broad range of editorial projects. In 2012, he helped institute OnAllCylinders, where he enjoys covering all facets of hot rodding and racing.