I've got an air fitting for the spark plug hole, I put cylinder #1 at TDC, apply 100 psi and I'm getting a constant small leak past the valves. I then compress the exhaust valve spring with a shaft-mount valve spring compressor, and get a big shot of air out the exhaust hole instead of the valve staying up and the locks popping loose... what am I doing wrong?

I'd pull the heads off the engine but I didn't want to have to remove the bases for my shaft rockers and remove the heads from an engine with only a couple dyno runs on it if I didn't have to, although it would probably make degreeing new cam a heck of a lot easier. Any ideas?

Thanks!

 

you need to break the retainers loose. I am headed that way if you would like me to stop by? I just did a valve spring change (Hot cam kit install) for a customer this week.

I will shot you a PM with my number if you are interested.

Ellis Groo
Speed Secrets
"The Secret to reliable performance!"

 

Yeah gotta break the locks loose.... I know it sounds crazy but hit the retainer (not the valve) with a dead blow to break the locks loose from the retainers... then you will compress the spring indepenant of the valve.

Bret

 

Yep, just smack em.

I use a piece of short pvc pipe so I can spread the *smack* all around the retainer but a well aimed dead-block hit will do it too.

-Mindgame

 

Yeah, be careful not to damage any of those $400/set wavy Ti retainers...or, Heaven forbid, lose one in the process!

 

I just replaced my springs, retainers and locks.

I used a rubber mallet and hit the retainer as everyone mentioned above.

You'll hear loud pops until the locks break free. You'll hear the difference
once the retainer comes loose.

OAN: It is safe to leave the carburetor on the motor when using compressed
air? Will 100 PSI of air popping back up the intake runner ruin a power valve,
or anything (compared to back firing)?

 

Thanks guys. Ellis stopped by and we discovered that the new springs don't fit over the seats on the heads, so...

So I'm heading to Sears to get a 3/8" 12-point deep socket set to get the last 3 @#*(@*% stud bolts that I can't get to with the springs on the heads. I needed some new tools anyway...

 

Very nice ride you have there Jim! I would love to to it running down the road soon!