Valve Spring Lock: Service and Repair

NOTE: Ford does not provide a TDC (Top Dead Center) mark or determination procedure for this engine in this vehicle.
ALLDATA users have reported success using aftermarket tools to determine TDC on this engine.








REMOVAL
1. Remove valve covers and rocker arms.
2. Remove spark plug from applicable cylinder.
3. Position piston at top of stroke with both exhaust valve and intake valve closed.
4. Install an air line with an adapter in the spark plug hole and turn air supply ON.

NOTE: Failure of air pressure to hold the exhaust valve and intake valve closed while performing the following steps is an indication of valve and/or valve seat damage and requires removal of cylinder head.

5. Compress valve spring using a suitable valve spring compressor following tool manufacturer's instructions.

6. Remove valve spring retainer key, valve spring retainer and valve spring.

CAUTION: It is very important that the piston stay at TDC in the bore while performing this procedure. If piston moves when air is applied, start with Step No. 3 and proceed again. This will make sure that the valves will not drop into the cylinder bore.

7. Using locking pliers remove valve stem seal.
8. Repeat Steps 2 through 7 until all necessary valve stem seals are removed.

INSTALLATION
1. Remove air pressure from spark plug adapter. Inspect the valve stem for damage. Rotate the valve and check the valve stem tip for eccentric movement during rotation. Move the valve up and down through normal travel in the valve guide and check the stem for binds.

NOTE: Piston must be at top dead center (TDC) of cylinder being serviced.

2. If the condition of the valve is satisfactory, apply clean engine oil to the valve stem and hold the valve closed. Apply the air pressure within the cylinder.

NOTE: If the valve has been damaged, it will be necessary to remove the cylinder head for service.

3. Install new valve stem seal using a 5/8-inch deep-well socket. Make sure valve stem seal is bottomed on guide.

NOTE: Intake valve stem seals have a silver band around them while the exhaust valve stem seals have a red band.

4. Position valve spring and valve spring retainer over valve stem.
5. Compress valve spring using a suitable valve spring compressor and install valve spring retainer keys.
6. Remove valve spring compressor.
7. Turn air supply OFF and remove adapter from spark plug hole.
8. Install spark plugs.
9. Install rocker arm and valve covers.
10. Start engine and check for leaks.