[rico750sxi]

I was reading a GMHTP from about 2 months ago and came across something that has got me wondering. When changing Springs avalve seals on an LS7 they took an 8mm deep well and hammered the Viton seal down until it hit the spring seat. Is that the normal install procedure. For the heck of it I took my rockers off(thus the other post about red loctite) and one of my valvesprings. An 8mm socket doesn't even fit over the valve stem. So anyways, what is the proper way to install Viton seals?
Thanks in Advance.

 

[machinistone]

Use a socket that is just big enough to go around the upper part of the seal(part with the small spring) and seat on the lower part, then smack it on. I have seal installers that I have made up for different stem sizes, but a socket will work.

 

[rico750sxi]

So do not rest the socket on the area of the spring on the valve seal? Are you saying to wedge a socket down on the seal kind of? Thanks

 

[machinistone]

Yes - a socket that fits over the top part and rests on the step where the metal meets the rubber.

 

[GTO_Scott]

I used this tool for mine.

COMP Cams Valve Seal Installation Tool

 

[mr2guru]

Also they don't usually go to the seat either. They sit about 1/8" above when fully seated. You'll know by how the sound changes as your tapping them down as to when it's seated fully.

 

[rico750sxi]

Thanks guys, a 13mm deep well was the ticket. Mine also when down to about an 1/8" from the spring seat.

 

[svede1212]

ok, so how do you get the old ones out?

 

[GTO_Scott]

ok, so how do you get the old ones out?

Plyers

 

[GMH GTO]

Valve seal pliars, the matco ones are the best
http://www.thetoolwarehouse.net/shop/SP-92350.html

Or

you can get a special valve seal slide hammer puller from www.goodson.com

 

[svede1212]

i knew there would have to be a tool i don't have and will need. thanks guys

 

[bluGTO]

i knew there would have to be a tool i don't have and will need. thanks guys

You don't need one for the stock seals. Needle nose vise grips pull the stock seat/seal right out.

 

[BaadGoat2006]

channel locks work well too

 

[svede1212]

then i'm ready! no, wait. need the cam first