VG30E valve spring compressor

[sewebster]

Just picked up a 91 and am new here. Currently entirely rebuilding the engine. My normal valve spring compressor doesn't work (not enough clearance to get the "jaws" on). Any options other than the one in the dealer manual (I assume I can get it at the dealer, probably for an excessive amount) or concocting something on my own (likely a c-clamp or bolt and some metal)?

 

Thanks for any advice!

 

On a side note, is the sensor right on the top of the block the coolant temperature sender? Anyone installed an aftermarket gauge (with real temperatures)?

[silverton]

I believe the one on the top of the block between the heads is the knock sensor. PITA when it needs to be replaced.

 

Sorry, no advice on the valve spring compressor, other than renting one from your local parts supplier.

[sewebster]

I believe the one on the top of the block between the heads is the knock sensor. PITA when it needs to be replaced.

 

Aha, thanks! I think mine is a bit smashed, but just looked up a price and dang that thing is expensive (~$100). Maybe I can fix up the connector... Is the timing automatically retarded if knock is detected, I don't think I've ever dealt with a knock sensor before.

[silverton]

The timing usually end up retarded if the ECU doesn't get a "good" signal from that sensor. Kinda puts the motor into a limp mode.

[JamesRich]

I used a old school C type spring compressor, you just have to come from the opposite side of the head. From the exhaust side to get the intake, I had to set it pretty tight where I had to kind of wiggle it on but it worked fine.

Spend the money and change the sensor while you are looking at it. On my wife's quest, which is the one I was pulling the valves, the old sensor looked good and rang the same as the new one with an meter but the new sensor fixed the problem. And you don't want to have to take it all apart again.

James

[sewebster]

I used a old school C type spring compressor, you just have to come from the opposite side of the head. From the exhaust side to get the intake, I had to set it pretty tight where I had to kind of wiggle it on but it worked fine.

Spend the money and change the sensor while you are looking at it. On my wife's quest, which is the one I was pulling the valves, the old sensor looked good and rang the same as the new one with an meter but the new sensor fixed the problem. And you don't want to have to take it all apart again.

James

 

Cool, thanks for the advice!

[Precise1]

Anyone installed an aftermarket gauge (with real temperatures)?

Not many that I know of. No real need as WD21s don't normally overheat. If one gets hot, there is a problem with the cooling system; that's a pretty big radiator for a 3 liter motor...

 

B

[MY1PATH]

the "dealer spring compressor" as in the one that uses the rocker bolts to hold it in place, is not available @ dealers, infact most dealers don't have em cause they'd rather pull the heads. I managed to track one down for some $$$ and decieded that making one out of a cut C-clamp and some 1/4" plate would be the best way to go when I get to it....

[unccpathfinder]

I used one from Napa...I can take a pic of it tonight if I remember. But it was a standard spring compressor with the 2 jaws...it was tight but worked