David,

I think I got a buddy who has one of the valve spring compressors. I didn't realize the valve seals were that cheap, i was expecting a full set to run around $20 or so. I'll have to get these when I get paid and possibly borrow or buy the valve spring compressor.

My issue here is that w/ the big block, getting at anything on the engine is a bear. Getting the spark plugs out of the drivers side of the engine will not be too bad, but the passenger side is going to be dreadful. Not only is the truck factory a/c, it still has the AIR injection tubes on the manifolds that are pretty much welded in place by all the rust.

If there is a shortcut, or method of removing the air tubes so i can get a little more room to work I'm all for it. Nobody likes a smoking truck, and i most certainly don't.