I need a valve spring compressor for small engines

[Matt018]

I hate working on the damn flathead valves. They are such a pain. anyway, i tear down allot of small engines for scrap, and also have a couple come in my garage every now and again for repairs, I run a side business. I was working at an actuall small engine shop and mainly used the owners specialty tools but I have an engine coming in thats gonna need a valve job and i just cant **** around with screwdrivers and swearing anymore.

So can anyone either tell me a good homebrewed valve spring compressor? Im a bit limited in fabrication as i dont have a welder but im good at jerry rigging something up.

Or can someone reccomend me a cheapo valve spring compressor? Im not looking to go all out here, as this is a tool that isnt gonna see much stress.

 

[chard98]

I can only recommend the proper tool. I have worked on small engines for about 32 years, and the correct tool works the best. They are not cheap, about 40-50 dollars, It makes the job so much easier! You might be able to find one on ebay, or new on amazon. Just a few thoughts!

 

[WILD-BILL]

APS Karting has a few

http://host0114.csmhosting.com/IW_Products.m4p.pvx?;MULTI_ITEM_SUBMIT

I have (and recomend the C clamp Style)

 

[WILD-BILL]

Checked another JR dragster supplier and found one cheaper still

http://shop.viperizerracing.com/product.sc?productId=1646&categoryId=159

 

[purplezr2]

Can't you just do them with a small hand compressor and a small magnet for the keepers

 

[ricleh]

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Brigs-Strat..._Automotive_Tools&hash=item27cb462f1b&vxp=mtr

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Vintage-Sma...289?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item4847fdd6f9

 

[CWP1616L]

This is the one I use and you can get it right at NAPA.

LINK

 

[camarotoolman]

Dam, just sold one, I carried it around for months Too. Go figure.

 

[bobcatdan]

For some reason I think sears has them in the remains of the auto special tool section.

 

[Lkdelta]

tool topia?
about $25 http://www.tooltopia.com/kd-tools-379.aspx

about $9 (small pry) http://www.tooltopia.com/kd-tools-912.aspx

about $14 (C-clamp style) http://www.tooltopia.com/lisle-23300.aspx

 

[otis66]

I get all of my small engine repair tools from NAPA. NAPA Auto parts has a special tool catalog for small engine repair.

 

[Matt018]

I ordered the Lisle C clamp type, it should be here in the morning and ill give it a try

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000P0VTG4/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[Matt018]

Used it this morning and it works great! almost weird how easy that was.

 

[WILD-BILL]

Funny how the right tool for the job will do that

 

[blasto9000]

I once used a C-clamp and a deep-well socket with a slot milled into the side. The screw end of the clamp went on to the valve head, and the socket went under the stationary end. Open end of the socket on the retainer, compress clamp, remove keepers with magnet, then release.

Should work if it's like the valves of an automotive engine (e.g. with a retainer, two keepers, coil spring, just smaller).