[shaggy]

Howdy,

Made a rather disastrous discovery (given it's mogstock in 10 days!) today while doing valve clearances. We've got a broken valve spring. It's the outer one of an inlet valve.

I haven't fiddled with valves for 15 or more years, and all my memories involve taking the head off. Someone, please tell me this isn't the case.

jim

PS - anyone got a spring kicking around?

 

[esde]

Take out the spark plug, turn the engine to BDC for that cylinder, and jam a few feet of cotton cord into the hole. Then turn the engine to TDC untill you feel the cord start to get compressed, it will keep the valve from dropping into the cylinder. Much more reliable that the compressed air. Change your spring and pull out the cord, PRESTO!

 

[63TLF8]

Take out the spark plug, turn the engine to BDC for that cylinder,

Agree cotton cord is much better than using air. This may be an unnecessary reminder but you have two BDC in a cycle. Make sure that it is before the compression stroke so both valves are shut and the cord doesn't cause you grief by bending the other valve.

 

[shaggy]

Thanks for your help, particularly esde. Worked a treat, spring replaced, all valves adjusted, sounds and runs great.

jim "panic over"

 

[coachgeo]

Thank you for this information. Have included it now in the FAQ / DIY's under engine related items.

 

[esde]

Glad it worked for ya! Problem with using compressed air is it wont hold a valve thats worn, or if the seat is worn, or rings... etc, etc. Happy moggin!