Valve Spring Compressor

old28

old28

Senior Member
From past usage out there, is there a valve spring compression tool that stands out and works well for removal and installation. This is for Model A motor. Would like to keep cost under $100.
 
I like this one,

s-l1600.jpg


About 20-25 bucks on ebay.
 
I second the one Mike V. pictured.

I have that model, as well as several other similar from K-D and Lisle, among others.

Some types feature a locking-latch that keeps the spring compressed.
 
Do you think this KD model will work on the new Flathead Single springs I am going to install from Speedway?

They have 85# seat pressure, bit more than stock Model A.
 
Wear leather gloves. You may need two hands to compress it with 85# springs. I refer to those contraptions as blood blister specials.
 
I have two of the compressors like Mike V. Florida shows and find them very difficult to squeeze and hold with one hand.

IMO: The Sunnen valve spring compressor in the photo below is the best.
The Sunnen has a sliding lock that holds the spring compressed so you can work on the keepers without strain.
s-l225.jpg

eBay item number: 322339781114

Currently on EBAY for Buy it Now @ $25

Better hurry, it won't last long.

Good Day!
 
Last edited:
After trying several different ones, this is the one I prefer. It allows me to "dial in" the squeeze, freeing my hands up to put the keepers in place. (All the others I have are just taking up space in my tool box, including the pickle-fork sold by the vendors.)
 

Attachments

  • Valve Spring Compressor.JPG
    Valve Spring Compressor.JPG
    14.2 KB · Views: 136
old28 said:
Dave in MN -- have you used the Sunnen valve compressor on a model A motor?
Click to expand...

Yes I have.

I rebuild Model A motors and have found this tool to be the best I have used. I have about 4 different types and once I found this one, I have never used any other. I actually bought a spare 4 years ago in case the one I use all the time breaks. This tool has a bit more leverage which makes it easier to compress the spring.
The shape of the tool allows you to use it to pry against the bottom of the chamber opening to get the spring off the lifter boss while inserting the tool in its proper location to compress the spring. This may seem like a small thing, but when you assemble as many engines as I do, you appreciate anything that makes the process quicker and less demanding on slightly arthritic hands.

You don't see these on Ebay all the time...about once a month.
s-l225.jpg



Really, once you try one of these, you will not use anything else. The lock feature and additional leverage is what really makes it so much more useable. The speed of use compared to the style CarlG shows in post #11 is a factor of 6-10 times quicker to insert and obtain compression during assembly. I base this on having a Sunnen made compressor like Carl is showing.

I should note that it is fully adjustable to allow for different size retainers on modern valve sets and the original keepers for mushroom base valve stems.

Good Day!
Dave
www.durableperformance.net
 
Last edited:
Dave in MN said:
I have two of the compressors like Mike V. Florida shows and find them very difficult to squeeze and hold with one hand.

IMO: The Sunnen valve spring compressor in the photo below is the best.
The Sunnen has a sliding lock that holds the spring compressed so you can work on the keepers without strain.
s-l225.jpg

eBay item number: 322339781114

Currently on EBAY for Buy it Now @ $25

Better hurry, it won't last long.

Good Day!
Click to expand...

I agree with you on all counts. I bought this same one at Hershey three years should for .$15. Wayne
 
Thanks for all the idea's on compressors. I have tagged two or three on the bay. May pickup one or two (different styles).
 
Everybody has their favorite, I think I bought & tried 4 or 5 of them before I found the one that worked for me.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top