so i bought my s2k a few days ago with 114k miles. i dont know any of the history on the car so im gonna change all the normals like fluids plugs ( ngk's) and such. id like to remove my valve cover and inspect my retainers, i know what to look for. my question is if i need to replace any retainers, does it require removal of the head to replace the retainers or is there a special valve spring compressor i can buy to replace the retainers or will just a normal valve spring tool do it with just the valve cover removed. ( i.e do cams require removal? )

 

You don't have to pull the head if you use an air compressor to keep the valves from dropping. The cams have to be removed but I believe that is just a few bolts once the cover is off. There is a writeup on this procedure.

 

i found a couple semi- write ups but i cant find a good one.... anyone know of one that explains the camshaft removal, ive only done cams on a B series and i dont udnerstand how to time the cams

 

Found it

https://www.s2ki.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=569714

 

thanks for that link, very helpful... looks like a pretty straight foward job. ill definetely be taking this job on soon, might just replace all the retainers with AP2 retainers even if it doesnt need it.

 

ill be doing my valvetrain soon too. thanks for the link

 

That was a nice write up DIY.

 

FWIW it's much easier to check them than to change them. It's worth your time to pull the cover and look even if you don't have the new retainers on hand.

A very bright light really helps when doing this.

 

if you don't remove the head you have to be extremely careful not to drop a keeper into the chamber.

 

unless the engine was abused and mistreated the chances of you needing to replace the retainers is probably low. An inspection is a good idea, and look for scoring marks on the cam lobes as one indicator in addition to the valve stem height.

I just picked up an 02 with 55,000 miles and I can tell you that the stock factory plugs were toast, definitely needed replacing. PCV valve was also in need of replacing, and it is an important part to have working properly. I swapped the tranny fluid with fresh Honda MTF, and Amsoil 75w-110 differential gear oil in the diff. I'm doing two quick oil changes to get some of the old residue out that may be lingering around. I did a valve adjustment and replaced the valvecover gaskets at the same time. Running some fuel injector cleaner through the tank, and I swapped out the brake and clutch fluids. I also lubed the slave cylinder and shift fork, and adjusted the clutch. Don't forget to check the cabin air filter in addition to the intake filter as well. Good luck with your new vehicle.