Changing Valve Stem Seals.. - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

ReBeL072988 · 08-31-2004, 05:50 PM

I have an 88 1500 4.3L and I think the valve steme seals are bad.. i heard they are very easy to get to, you just take the cover off and change the seals. Has anyone else ever changed them? and is it as easy as it sounds?

ReBeL072988 · 09-04-2004, 11:52 AM

bump

FXSTCHIEF · 09-04-2004, 10:34 PM

I have changed them before and it is not all that hard. The BIGGEST thing to remember is NOT to let the valve drop down.

Asssuming you intend on leaving the head on, the two different ways I have done it is; 1.) Pressurize the cylinder with air to keep the valve in place while you remove the retaining clips...OR
2.) Remove the spark plug and feed about a foot of cotton rope into the cylinder then GENTLY turn the motor over until it wont turn anymore (Piston pushes rope against valve), then remove the valve spring retaining clips

After removing the old valve stem seal and replacing it with new, install in reverse order. Grease will help to keep retaining clips in place if needed.

Hope this helps a little.

Good Luck!

RemoteControl · 09-04-2004, 10:36 PM

It is a relatively easy job IF you know what you are doing and have the proper tools. It cannot be done with ordinary everyday tools. You must be able to keep the valve in place while you remove the keeper and spring, otherwise the valve will fall into cylinder chamber.........need I say more?

Rich

08-31-2004, 05:50 PM	#1
ReBeL072988 Registered User Join Date: Aug 2004 Posts: 6	Changing Valve Stem Seals.. I have an 88 1500 4.3L and I think the valve steme seals are bad.. i heard they are very easy to get to, you just take the cover off and change the seals. Has anyone else ever changed them? and is it as easy as it sounds?

09-04-2004, 10:34 PM	#3
FXSTCHIEF Registered User Join Date: Jul 2004 Posts: 17	I have changed them before and it is not all that hard. The BIGGEST thing to remember is NOT to let the valve drop down. Asssuming you intend on leaving the head on, the two different ways I have done it is; 1.) Pressurize the cylinder with air to keep the valve in place while you remove the retaining clips...OR 2.) Remove the spark plug and feed about a foot of cotton rope into the cylinder then GENTLY turn the motor over until it wont turn anymore (Piston pushes rope against valve), then remove the valve spring retaining clips After removing the old valve stem seal and replacing it with new, install in reverse order. Grease will help to keep retaining clips in place if needed. Hope this helps a little. Good Luck! Last edited by FXSTCHIEF; 09-04-2004 at 10:36 PM.

09-04-2004, 10:36 PM	#4
RemoteControl Registered User Join Date: Jun 2004 Posts: 45	It is a relatively easy job IF you know what you are doing and have the proper tools. It cannot be done with ordinary everyday tools. You must be able to keep the valve in place while you remove the keeper and spring, otherwise the valve will fall into cylinder chamber.........need I say more? Rich __________________ PEOPLE THAT THINK THEY KNOW EVERYTHING ARE PARTICULARLY ANNOYING TO THOSE OF US THAT DO !! Dropped 93 Chevy Std Cab, 454 SS conversion, 20 in Centerlines, Wrap Around Ground Effects

09-04-2004, 11:52 AM	#2
ReBeL072988 Registered User Join Date: Aug 2004 Posts: 6	bump



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