I just purchased some Supertech Ti dual valve springs, retainers and seats... I have not pulled the head yet, but I want to know what I'm getting into here. My engine has just north of 80K miles. Will I need to replace the valve guides and valve guide seals? It seems like a major PITA to do that and I would like to avoid it at all costs.

I doubt this helps, but I did a compression check today and registered consistently in the 230-240 psi range.

 

i don't think you would need to replace the valve guides but you might as well replace the valve guide seals because they are cheap while you have the head off.

 

The valve guide seals should be replaced not just b/c it's cheap but you have to pull them to get the seat out. Chances are you will damage the seal when replacing the seat.

 

Don't I need a special tool to pull the old seals and install the new ones? I thought I saw something about that in the helms manual. If so, where can I get one?

 

There are special pullers for the seals and also for installing. However, you could probably get away a long needle nose plier. Take care not to damage the guide and valve stem.