Hi all,

going to change my retainers but i dont have access to a compressed air source. are there any other methods to keep the valves from falling when im doing so?

ill be doing it with the head on.

 

rope

 

Let us know what works for you.

 

Like AZJohn said ... rope works great.

I have compressed air and usually use some nylon rope.
Get the piston at BDC, feed the rope and then turn the crank pushing the piston against the valves.

Joaquin

 

sweet thanks! ill give that method ago. im assuming with the rope in there the piston wont move to TDC?

 

If that doesn't work, you can buy (maybe rent too), a compressed air tank from places like Harbor Freight. You take this to a gas station and fill it from their air supply. Then you have a portable compressed air source. Some tow trucks have these for reinflating tires, etc.

 

A tank without a compressor can be risky though. If the cylinder leaks down, the compressor won't kick in to save the day.

 

yah do the rope thing, but for safe keeping leave like 3 feet out of the engine and tie the end off to something.

also remove the other plugs (all 4) so you can feel when you are compressing the rope against the head. also use thinner rather than thicker rope. it works a little better to "get in there"