Valve Spring Compressors

74-07 · #1 07-19-2020, 12:16 PM

Started on our IO-360 angle valve valve wobble test today and used our new ATS spring compressor. The unit is adjustable but we spent at least an hour on the first valve trying to get it adjusted where it would compress the spring evenly (i.e. not cocked) so the keepers would come out. We finally managed to get the springs off but then the adjustment that made it right for getting the keepers out was completely wrong for compressing the spring back to get the keepers back in. Think I'm going to send these back and get a "Valve Wizard" Am I doing something wrong?

BillL · #2 07-19-2020, 02:45 PM

Here is a DIY tool I thought would be a good candidate design. I don't have any dimensions.

akarmy · #3 07-20-2020, 01:07 PM

This is what I use and I'm at a loss for words how amazing it is

http://www.valvewizard.com/

The first time my A&P used it he kept it in lieu of payment as it makes the process so easy.

I recently used it to drop an exhaust valve for inspection and it makes it so easy to get the keepers out and back in. It screws into the head using the rocker screw holes and then you simply screw down the compression on the spring. It's directly inline so the spring goes smoothly in and the keepers pop out easy as can be.

74-07 · #4 07-20-2020, 01:16 PM

Andy,

Yep, I sent the adjustable one back and ordered the valve wizard for my Lycoming angle valve engine. I thought about it before ordering the other but the "injected molded" generated thoughts that it's plastic and won't hold up. I've since learned better.

akarmy · #5 07-20-2020, 01:30 PM

Ya it does seem like it might not hold up, but they specifically call out to make sure and use all the screws and tighten them evenly. It seems to be fine after using it a few times. and it's just so EASY. My A&P spent way too long with one of those pivot lever types before we pulled the wizzard out

RVDan · #6 07-20-2020, 03:08 PM

Just need a cheaper tool for the wobble test now.

PerfTech · #7 07-21-2020, 11:49 AM

.... This is our entry in this discussion, as I tried several different available products
and decided to make this one. I found things I wasn't impressed with on all of them,
and decided to make one I liked. Most were to much trouble to use and had far too many
parts. They dad to be bolted on, or they were somewhat frail and destoned for destruction,
or were ridiculously priced for what you were getting. We had entertained the idea of
manufacturing this product and adding them to our product line, but decided we had
other more pressing items to complete first. I'm not sure if the demand is there to justify
us making and marketing these? Please let us know your thoughts and opinions. Thanks, Allan...

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photo sharing
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74-07 · #8 07-21-2020, 01:53 PM

Alan,

I gave up on the ATS one and now have a Valve Wizard on order. I'll be interested in seeing how well it holds up since it's an injection molded product. I've loved every product I've bought from your company (especially your magical prop wrench) so I'm sure this one is no different concerning quality and functionality. Many of our engines are coming up to the 4-500 hour mark and morning sickness is becoming a factor. I would have certainly given your product a try if it had been available. One question......will your product work on both parallel and angle valve engines?

Lastly, this is absolutely not a slam against ATS! I have many great products from them and they absolutely stand by their product. Don't like it.....send it back for a full refund......no questions asked.

blueflyer · #9 07-21-2020, 02:02 PM

I could not agree more. Makes the job so easy.

Quote:

Originally Posted by akarmy

This is what I use and I'm at a loss for words how amazing it is

http://www.valvewizard.com/

The first time my A&P used it he kept it in lieu of payment as it makes the process so easy.

I recently used it to drop an exhaust valve for inspection and it makes it so easy to get the keepers out and back in. It screws into the head using the rocker screw holes and then you simply screw down the compression on the spring. It's directly inline so the spring goes smoothly in and the keepers pop out easy as can be.

n18pf · #10 07-21-2020, 02:47 PM

Agreed. The thing I like most about the Valve Wizard is once you have the springs compressed, you have both hands free to insert or extract the keepers. A complete no brainier. Our EAA chapter has one I can check out and use, but I'm thinking of getting my own just because it is so easy to use!

I like the look of Allen's product, but it still requires one hand to hold pressure on the springs while you insert/extract keepers with your other hand. Maybe if I tied a rope around it and held it with my foot!!