[Spridgets] Valve Spring Retainers

[brian S]

Follow up,

I got it back together and running good.

Instead of just replacing the one, I figured that if 1 failed, how long would it be til another one did?
I might not get so lucky that if another one did fail, would it drop a Valve and destroy the engine?
I got a set of Minispares 200lb springs and Upgraded hardened Steel retainers and keepers.
The aren't expensive, even with shipping and got them in a few days.

I tried to do it keeping the head on the car and using a Valve Spring compressor.
I drained the radiator but forgot to drain the block. DOH!
After pulling the Rocker Shaft got a bunch of anti-freeze into the cylinders.
Spun it over with the plugs out and shot AF a VERY far distance! Oops
Found out that trying to do this by oneself is Difficult to say the least.
You really need at least 3 hands. 2 to keep the Spring compressor on the spring and another to get the keepers out and back in.
Could only get 6 using the screw type, it wouldn't fit in the space on the outer 2 valves on the Aluminum head.
Wound up pulling the head and going to a friends and using his Big C clamp style one.
Probably should have waited for him to get home and done this from the start. Much easier!
I mean,  pulling the head on these cars is pretty simple.
Got it back together and started right up, so I guess I did ok.
Old springs all looked good, none were broken.
Guess the retainer just failed.
Thanks all for the tips and advice!

Brian S.
Bugeyeracer resto'ed Thanks to Frank C.!
________________________________
From: Spridgets <spridgets-bounces at autox.team.net> on behalf of brian S via Spridgets <spridgets at autox.team.net>
Sent: Saturday, May 28, 2022 11:48 AM
To: spridgets list <spridgets at autox.team.net>; OSHIT <EasternOshitGroup at groups.io>
Subject: [Spridgets] Valve Spring Retainers

So,
I pulled my Valve Cover yesterday. Was planning to modify it for more Breathing. Has a Lot of Blowby, but that's for another post. 😉
I happen to see a piece of metal between the rockers on the top of the head. Thinking WTF is that from?
Move around to the other side of the engine and see pic #2, Well crap, that's not good.
Car ran fine the night before. Guess I got lucky that what was left still held on to get me home.
I believe they are Titanium Retainers. Super light, and not bendable.
Don't know a ton about this engine.
What I do know.
built in 2000. I acquired it in 2014. Sat unused awaiting owner to install in a Bugeye Project and passed away.
1275, .030 over, 9.75:1,  Kent 266 cam w/ Belt drive, 1.5:1 roller rockers. Pierce Alum head, HS2s w ported intake.
Don't know Spring manufacturer.
How do I go about finding a replacement Retainer? Do I have to get a full set? Titanium ones are $200+ a set
If I have to get a full set, can I use hardened Steel ones? Engine doesn't see 8000 rpm, 7000 occasionally. 😉
Any insight appreciated.

Thanks,


Brian S.
Bugeyeracer resto'ed Thanks to Frank C.!
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