Valve spring compressor

[F34R]

I searched and could not find any info on what one works best.

I am wondering what one to get to do the head.

I found this one and it seems like it would do the job well.

VALVE SPRING COMPRESSOR BRIGGS & STRATTON 19063
http://cgi.ebay.com/VALVE-SPRING-COM...#ht_1367wt_907

Or the C-clamp style? It seems to me it would get in the way...

[jlevie]

The only compressor I've had success with is the C-clamp style. I got mine from Sears.

[F34R]

I am wondering how a C style will get past the #21 part when clamping.

http://realoem.com/bmw/showparts.do?...66&hg=11&fg=25

[riceh8r]

you need a forked angle compressor. you will have to have plenty of room to work the top and get the retainers out


i bought one that wouldn't work, my dad had this one just laying in his garage...thanks dad !!!

[nando]

C type works just fine

[jlevie]

I am wondering how a C style will get past the #21 part when clamping.

http://realoem.com/bmw/showparts.do?...66&hg=11&fg=25

The side of the compressor that depresses the spring is split to allow the keepers to be removed.

[nando]

seriously, sears, $25 (maybe $5 more, it's been about 6 years), can't go wrong. you can order online and pick it up at the store.

[F34R]

Ah

The side of the compressor that depresses the spring is split to allow the keepers to be removed.

I am getting the C style, I think I might even have one laying around at the shop...

[StereoInstaller1]

whatever you do, don't loan it out EVER.

[carfantiti]

okay best way to get off is a socket and a hammer!I rebuilt my head was so easy tap tap cabling.I bought a auto zone one and cut it up to put back on work!

[browntown]

I too tried several styles, and finally bought the sears c-clamp and it worked like a charm. Also, you don't need them but the best tool purchase I've made recently is snap on valve seal pliers. Pulled all 12 ancient/brittle/stuck sob's in 2 minutes:
Pliers, Valve Stem Seal
Stock#: YA8230

[Cabriolet]

I too tried several styles, and finally bought the sears c-clamp and it worked like a charm. Also, you don't need them but the best tool purchase I've made recently is snap on valve seal pliers. Pulled all 12 ancient/brittle/stuck sob's in 2 minutes:
Pliers, Valve Stem Seal
Stock#: YA8230

after rebuilding 3 heads myself, i can attest to how easy this tool makes the job. and you dont have to worry about ruining the seals.

and i have used a c-clamp to put the valves back in, but it does take two people to make it easy.

[moapys]

OHC valve-spring compressor from Sears

Part number 947627 (large "c" type; two forks supplied); worked perfectly on E30 this afternoon.

...'tensioner sheared...twelve - count 'em, ALL DOZEN valves bent. At least tool made quick work of things, and no chasing keeper/collets.

[TimeMachinE30]

The right tool is always such a pleasure..

[jeffnhiscars]

The collets (valve spring retainers) love to jump out just as you are releasing the compressor so I've always used a small dab of grease to hold them in place. Best practice #2 is to give the top retainer a sharp tap (no metal on metal pls) to seat the collets. They can bind and throw off your valve adjustment or worse, one pops off when you start er up and your valve drops.

Just my 2c