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760 Review
57 Karma

Review on πŸ”§ OTC 4572 Large Valve Spring Compressor - Efficient & Durable, in Sleek Black Design by Deron Gilliam

Revainrating 5 out of 5

Excellent for Jaguar XK engines: E-Type, XJ6, Saloons etc.

Use this panel when working on a Jaguar XK engine. Because of the OHC head configuration, you need a valve spring compressor that can run low on both ends - this supercharger is perfect for that. I've seen some reviews that said the handle is difficult to use to compress the spring - that's because they don't get it right. As stated in the instructions, the handle is really only used to quickly open the device to switch to the next or to position the tool. You compress the spring by turning the T-bar on the valve side. The small foot that makes contact with the surface of the valve stays firmly on the valve because it is attached to the adjustment screw with a ball and socket. That way, when you turn the adjustment screw, your foot doesn't try to turn and scratch the surface of the valve. It simply compresses the spring, you pull out the latches and unscrew to release the spring. You can loosen it with the crank if you're in a hurry, but to make sure nothing falls apart, simply loosen the tension with the T-bolt before moving the crank. Easy. Don't forget to loosen the valve stem retainer by somehow preventing the valve from opening with something that won't damage it (like a piece of wood or similar) by putting a seat slightly smaller than the diameter of the valve. spring retainer over the spring and tap it lightly with a hammer - don't freak out, just a few taps to loosen it before attempting to use the compressor on it. You'll feel it move when it's free. In terms of quality, it is quite durable. I can't imagine it being bent if you make sure you loosen the spring retainers before using the compressor on them. Again, don't try to squeeze the springs with the handle - it's pointless, and even if you do, it'll just hurt your hand and probably save you 30 seconds compared to simply twisting the T-bar like you did to have . should.

Pros
  • Easy to read panel
Cons
  • Reliability