Removal And Installation

CAUTION: During engine repair procedures, cleanliness is extremely important. Any foreign material, including any material created while cleaning gasket surfaces that enters the oil passages, coolant passages or the oil pan, can cause engine failure.

Remove the rocker arms. For additional information, refer to Valve Train Components - Exploded View, Rocker Arm, Push Rod, Valve Seals and Hydraulic Lash Adjuster and Rocker Arm .
Rotate the crankshaft until the piston for the valve being worked on is at the top of its stroke with both the intake valve and the exhaust valve closed.

CAUTION: If the components are to be reinstalled, they must be installed in the same position. Mark the components for location.

Hold the valve in the cylinder head.
- Remove the spark plug. For additional information, refer to ENGINE IGNITION article.
- Apply a minimum of 689 kPa (100 psi) of compressed air to the cylinder.
Using the special tool, remove the valve spring retainer keys.

Fig 1: Removing Valve Spring Retainer Keys Using Special Tool (303-163)

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: Refer to ENGINE SYSTEM - GENERAL INFORMATION article for valve spring retainer inspection.

Remove the valve spring retainer.

NOTE: Refer to ENGINE SYSTEM - GENERAL INFORMATION article for valve spring inspection.

Remove the valve spring.
Remove the valve stem seal.

CAUTION: Do not release the compressed air from the cylinder until after the valve spring retainer keys are installed.

To install, reverse the removal procedure.