Remving valve springs

Can I pull of head (cam)springs with basic hand tools and a esslinger rocker removal bar? I am really concerned about the retainers. How do they come loose?

When the spring is compressed down far enough to let the round retainer drop down, then the keepers (2 per valve) can be removed from the valve stem. Once the keepers are removed then the retainer and spring can be lifted straight up and off. I use a small magnetic tool to pull the keepers away from the valve stem
I'm looking at a picture of Essy tool PN E3240, "Quick Release Rocker Arm Tool" but I never used one and can't answer you question as to whether it will compress a spring far enough to release the keepers. I will say that you don't have to compress the springs as far to remove the followers as you do to release the keepers. Call Essy and ask them

I use the tool in the picture. I got it here, scroll down near the bottom: http://www.mytoolstore.com/kd/kdengi13.html

[This message has been edited by Pete D (edited 02-15-2005).]

Pete, which part# from the list. Thanks

KD 3087, 2nd from the bottom

Are you doing this on or off the car? Remember if doing on car you need compressed air in the cylinders to keep the valves from dropping.

Also, I've found that when installing, a large pair of tweezers and a little Vaseline on the keeper makes thing go real smooth. [Image: smile.gif]

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1987 TC - LA3 and 3G Alt. conversion, K&N and a Gillis Valve to come.

Now all I have to do is get the brakes working right and put some exhaust on it. My ears are starting to hurt

I am doing this with the heads off. I was just curious because sometimes when I pull cracked heads in the jy, they have the heavy duty double springs, but I dont take them because I heard if you take them out incorrectly you could loose an eye. Just one more toll I need to have handy when I am searching for jy treasures. Thanks all!

If you want to save $50, check out Jeff Korn's valve spring compressor in the 'Tech Articles' section. I copied his idea and made mine in about 15 minutes at a cost of $2. I've used it several times and it works great!