L-Head 6 valve removal

[blue71c]

Hello everyone,

I'm trying to remove the valves from my '53 L-Head 6 using a briggs removal tool. I cant seem to get the locks out. Whats the trick or is the briggs tool not going to work for me?

Thanks in advance.

[Plymouthy Adams]

when compressed, you may have to tap the retainer to break the bond of the taper....

[blue71c]

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So tap the spring assembly not the top of the valve?

 

[Don Coatney]

Use of a magnet may help pop the keepers out.

[blue71c]

That's as far as I can get. The valves just rise up with the spring and wont release from the keepers. 

[Don Coatney]

4 minutes ago, blue71c said:

That's as far as I can get. The valves just rise up with the spring and wont release from the keepers. 

Then you may have to tap them down. But it should not take much force. Be gentle.

[40plyguy]

Just removed the valves fr 2 of these engines and found that if you give the retainer a sharp rap with a brass punch and hammer before installing the compressor helps free the keepers. Then compress the spring. Remove the keepers-a magnet helps. Remove the compressor and gently pry the retainer and spring away fr the lifter. Remove the valve and move on.

[Don Coatney]

Also stuff a rag into the "wells" that lead directly to the oil pan from inside the valve covers to prevent the keepers from swimming in the oil pan. 

[blue71c]

Thank you Gentleman, much appreciated. 

[keithb7]

A light tapping on the valve while spring was compressed worked for me in my '53. Definitely get some rags in there. Do not proceed to progress with any work until all removed keepers have been accounted for. Very important! These little buggars run and hide in dark places. 

Don't forget to set lash with hot engine running! (My favourite part)

Edited September 27, 2017 by keithb7