valve seals

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Mar 23, 2011 | 12:29 PM

NV250

Thread Starter

Junior User

Joined: Sep 2008

Posts: 62

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valve seals

Hi,

I am considering purchasing a 78' Ford F-150 with a 350 engine. The owner says that it needs new valve seals and I was wondering how hard this would be to do myself? I also would like to know the cost/difficulty/tools needed to do this.

Thank you for your time,

Nathan

Mar 23, 2011 | 04:01 PM

Duct Tape Racing

Elder User

Joined: Jul 2010

Posts: 960

Likes: 3

From: Saint Charles, Missouri

Courtesy of Ehow.com

things you'll need:

</HEADER>

Wrench set
Socket Set
Hammer
Valve Spring Tool
Pliers
Screwdriver
Air Compressor
Compression Gauge (hose)

</SECTION>

- 1 Disassemble your engine down to where you will have access to the valve spring. You will need to remove the cylinder head cover, the rocker arms and the push rods. You will also need to remove the spark plugs.
- 2 Valve spring and seal assembly Next turn on your air compressor and regulate the air 60-90 psi, turn the crankshaft until the cylinder you are replacing valve seals on is on top dead center. Screw the compression gauge hose into the spark plug hole, attach the air compressor hose, your cylinder is now pressurized.
  The valves will stay in the closed position as long as the air pressure is holding it up.
- 3 Valve spring compressor Using the valve spring tool, compress the valve spring and remove the valve keepers with a magnet. These may be stuck to the valve spring retainer and a little bump with the palm of your hand or a small hammer will jar it loose. Pack towels around the area so you won't lose the keepers into the engine. Remove the spring.
- 4 Remove the old valve seal with pliers or screwdrivers and replace with a new seal. Reverse procedure to reassemble engine, use the magnet when installing keepers and after removing valve spring compressor tap the top of the valve lightly with a hammer to seat the keepers.