Where to get valve spring compressor

[old_man]

Where is the cheapest place to buy a valve spring compressor? HF doesn't have them...wierd.

Not looking for the cheap T handle units but rather the ones shaped like a c-clamp.

 

[alex22]

I've modified one of these into a valve spring compressor, works great.

Here's something else that might work for you.
http://www.jeepstrokers.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=2494

Goodson's valve spring compressors start at about $180

 

[macgyvr]

I have one that I bought I think pretty inexpensively from either sears or autozone...

mac 'it wasn't 180 i know that' gyvr

 

[2stix]

i ordered mine from NAPA about 10 years ago. its the large "C" clamp style. not many places carry the good ones in stock, so be prepared to order and wait a few days. but honestly, it is worth the wait to get the best one you can. i dont remember what i payed, but it wasnt overly priced. no matter what clamp you buy, before you try and break free the retainer, use a rubber mallet or something under the head and against the valve, then smack the retainer with a socket or piece of tubing or something. just a quick tap to break it free. this will keep the spring compressor from needing to use too much force and bending the clamp.

 

[old_man]

I found a bunch of knock offs on ebay for about $25 shipped. Maybe I'll try one of those. Advance Auto has one for about $60, but it looks just like the knockoffs.

 

[old_man]

I've used all kinds and like the old school c clamp type unless I build another one like I had for years. I used a Dake press with a tilting table and you just slid the head under the press and then side to side as you hit each valve. The name brands are just way over priced.

 

[2stix]

in a hurry i once needed to get one of the cheap C clamp style compressors. it worked ok with the VW heads i was doing at that time. but when i tried to use it on a stiffer spring (mostly BBC stuff) it would bend and distort causeing the compressor to want to fold over, and/or slip off the retainer. so be carefull when looking at ones that LOOK like a top quality, but at a very cheap price. after fighting the cheap one i had with some SBC heads, and almost breaking a wrist trying to hold it straight, i drove down and ordered the napa one. a day later and i was good to go. spend the $60 and save the medical bills for something you COULDN'T prevent.

 

[Cnickgo]

I was trying to find a c-clamp style as well, big PITA. My Snap-on guy can order one, I believe it was $50-80.

 

[foress_89]

I made one, for 10 box. Just get a big clamp, cut a piece of tubing that is the size of the valves (about) and cut an opening in it to access the valve locks.

 

[Wayne Sihler]

Check out Jegs or Summit.
www.jegs.com