dont you have to take the heads out to get the springs out? doesnt this make things pretty complicated?

 

Nope. Heads can stay bolted to the motor.

Just use an overhead valve spring compressor. Either use compressed air or the TDC method to hold the valve up, compress the spring, remove the keepers, and remove the spring.

 

How does the compressed air work? I would have done it the TDC method, which is easier/faster?

 

Compressed air "charges" the cyllinder and keeps the valves closed. As hard as plug access is, the TDC method is easier, IMO.

 

Dont bother with air. You wont drop a valve on a stock LT1 motor, there isnt enough stroke. Use a small pen magnet to hold the valve up if the seal doesnt hold it in place (it should)

 

overhead valve spring compressor can fit way in the back of the engine compartment?

 

Easily. It's not very big. I used a generic one from Advance Auto, found on the shelf, and it actually worked better than the popular KD compressor.

 

What he said. Wear gloves to protect your hands from fatigue