Vavle Spring Compressor

[notaping]

Anyone got any recommendations for a valve spring compressor for the V8. I'm gearing up for an engine rebuild and it's time to buy some new tools.

Ta..

[ukkid35]

Get the best you can

It needs to be a multivalve compressor otherwise it won't have the necessary depth

I used something that I bought twenty years ago, which looks very much like the Sykes-Pickavant 03950000, but it must be a cheap rip-off because I certainly didn't spend £80



The problem is that it twists under use, and there's a risk if it slips you'll damage the head

I've also used one of the cheap Chinese U shaped probably Silverline branded



They are equally poor, as the alignment isn't accurate, and they flex too much despite the tubular construction, and because there's no lever they are very slow to operate

Despite the relatively low mileage, I spent £320 on a new set of springs, worth it for the peace of mind

Edited by ukkid35 on Sunday 21st March 09:38

[ukkid35]

Here you can see dead centre the nick I made when the compressor slipped

Thankfully it is just inside the fire ring, otherwise it would have made things really awkward

[notaping]

Good info. Thanks Paul, I don't want to chance buying a cheap tool for the sake of a few quid, and find it's not up to the job.

Still reading reviews, but found this one,

https://www.amazon.co.uk/OTC-4572-Large-Spring-Com...

Very like the Sykes-Pickavant you mentioned, and at £55 in the right price range. Looks ok on Youtube reviews as well.

Thanks for your help.