Valve stem seal installation

[Michael W.]

So reading through the post there seems to be some conflicting information. When installing original type valve stem seals (in this case an '86 Vette with iron heads) do you put on the "o-ring" before or after the valve spring and retainer? I have read some post where you put the o-ring on before you install the valve spring, and others where they explicitly say to put it on just before the keepers. Any insights?

[Joe L.]

Re: Valve stem seal installation

So reading through the post there seems to be some conflicting information. When installing original type valve stem seals (in this case an '86 Vette with iron heads) do you put on the "o-ring" before or after the valve spring and retainer? I have read some post where you put the o-ring on before you install the valve spring, and others where they explicitly say to put it on just before the keepers. Any insights?

Michael------


You must compress the valve spring and valve cap (retainer) BEFORE installing the "o-ring" seal. Then, install the valve locks (keepers) and release the spring. If you don't do it this way, you will push the seal off the valve stem when you install the valve spring caps. You must also insure that the seals are not twisted when installed. These seals are not actually o-rings. They have a square cross-section and that must be maintained after installation on the valve stem.

[Michael W.]

Re: Valve stem seal installation

Thank you Joe, You were right I found the service manual for it and sure enough if we would have just turned one more page we would not have had to opened half of it back up again. O well great way to learn about the car.

Thank you for the help!!!!

Mike