Checking Valve Spring Install Height & Seat Diameter

I needed to get this information so that I could pass it along to Comp Cams. They needed it to help set me up with the proper valve springs and retainers.

I thought this would be good information for those that needed it. If you're going to 'blueprint' an engine, you're going to need to be able to get this information.

As stated in the video, there is a special tool for this, but this method will work just fine.

Camera: Brian Kast

Thanks for watching!

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Due to factors beyond the control of EricTheCarGuy, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information, or improper use of this information.  EricTheCarGuy assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. EricTheCarGuy recommends safe practices when working with power tools, automotive lifts, lifting tools, jack stands, electrical equipment, blunt instruments, chemicals, lubricants, or any other tools or equipment seen or implied in this video.  Due to factors beyond the control of EricTheCarGuy, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result.  Any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not EricTheCarGuy.

[donaldspeck]

Yes
This is a old post, perfect explanation of install height a seat diameter.
Please do another video for the rest of the spring details. Ie... coil bind and the other information needed to match springs to the cam.

😊 TY Sir

[tricky]

i love it when things get detailed and technical  *no pressure*

[yinzer__]

Tap on the stem with a plastic hammer while holding up on the retainer to seat the keepers. It does change your measurement.

[wesg]

Awesome video, it's the little things like this that kill a build if you forget about them

[AndrewBrathovde]

I keep checking the channel to see if Eric put out a bulk of the Fairmont engine videos like Netflix. Let me binge!

[seeya]

Eric, you are your valve's keeper!

[stephenrivera]

Nice way of figuring out the needed measurements. I would have probably ended up spending $100 on a tool I only need once. Keep the videos coming boss, can't wait until the next one.

[georgepretnick]

Lay a long straight edge across the tops of all the valve stems. On my heads, they weren't all the same. The valve stems were obviously all the same, but some of the valve grinds were deeper than others. That varied as much as .020" to .030". That was from a highly reputable head prep company. I stayed with stock valves, springs, and retainers and an "E" cam. Pedestal roller rockers had to be shimmed. No problems after 6, 000 miles and quite a few spirited accelerations. Just for reference, 284 RWHP with 4.11 gears in a '66 Mustang coupe.

[WhoThisGuy]

If you pull valves out be very careful the top of the valve steam on a good used engine will actually slightly mushroom. So if you let the valve drop but it gets stuck lift it back up and take some light sand paper and rub it around the top so you don't score the valve guides with the valve. Do not force the valve out.

[GreenUsher]

GREAT timing! I'm just learning about cylinder heads in class and valves.

[weou]

When are you planning to have the car running? Would love to take a vacation and come up and drag race with you. Eric vs his viewers? Would make a cool contest for something.

[nos]

hey eric! i noticed that your videos are in 1080p 60fps. i think 60fps is a little unnecessary. have you ever thought bout shooting in 4k instead for the extra detail?

[InsideOfMyOwnMind]

maybe a quick video explaining the things that make this measurement critical and necessary for the rest of us.

[AgustinCesar]

That head is from the old engine or the dark matter? before or after final assembly?

[rc]

how do you know if you should get a light or heavy compression spring?

[adamlewellen]

Eric, have you thought about working at auto trade school? I worked at wyotech for years and you explain better than most instructors I know.

[GotrekGurninsson]

Pro tip(I'm not a pro) find old mikuni round slide carb springs swap them in to provide tention while you measure :)

[sunj]

hello Eric, i just bought my 4runner, everything is great, but the body roll is terrible, do you know how to reduce that ?thanks

[ld]

That trick was genius. I've gotta remember that....

[rosariogarreffa]

Hi Eric, wanted replace valve springs on my A20A honda. Having to replace head gasket so whilst out I thought why not? But I'm struggling to find same but new valves, not available anywhere. So I was wondering using this measurement would I be able to order in new springs, based on size rather than part code? Or do I require additional information? Thanks