There’s more to valve springs than meets the eye at surface level. For a simple coil of wire, valve springs do an incredible job of making sure that the intake and exhaust valves open and close without bounce, flutter or having the valve hang open. Because they look so simple, the valve springs are often the most overlooked component in the engine.
The truth about valve springs is that they are complex component that should be properly selected and matched to the rest of the valve train so the engine can operate properly and efficiently. Incorrect installation or poor handling of valve springs can be as harmful as improper selection. It does absolutely no good to install a cam that will run up to 8,000 rpm if you do not have the correct springs. Improper selection of the wrong valve spring is one of the most common causes of engine failure.
After talking to the experts and getting recommendations on the correct valve spring for your application, you have a few more things to check during installation. Lunati has published a tech document to guide enthusiasts on machining specifics for valve springs. This document can be viewed by clicking here.
The Lunati experts discuss valve spring pocket clearance, valve spring retainer fit and installed height of the valve springs. Clearance between the valve spring retainer and the rocker arms is also a topic of discussion as well as the valve spring coil clearance.
Lunati also discusses the proper valve spring run-in procedures, which helps ensure long lasting and dependable service from the springs.
The specialists at Lunati also recommend proper handling of your valve springs before and during installation.
Proper Spring Handling
1. Handle springs with care. Never place in a vise, grab with pliers or hit them with a hammer. This will damage the surface of the spring, which will cause a spring to fail.
2. When separating double or triple springs, use only a durable plastic object that cannot harm the shot-peened surface of the spring. Never use a tool or hard metal object like a screwdriver.
3. Valve springs are shipped with a rust preventative coating that should remain on the spring throughout engine assembly. Do not clean springs with acidic or evaporative cleaners. This causes rapid drying and promotes the formation of rust on the surface, which can cause catastrophic failures. Even a slight amount of corrosion can grow to be a problem.
Using assembly lubrication will also help with the installation and improve the life of the valve spring.
For more information on valve spring technology, check the technical page at www.lunatipower.com