spark plug adapter for compressed air hook-up

[rgnprof]

My next job - following the completion of the pending brake work - is replacing the valve stem seals. I am having trouble finding a way of hooking up my air compressor to the spark plug holes. Someone suggested using my compression gauge, but I'm having trouble finding an adapter to hook the gauge hose to the air compressor hose - plus I didn't know if that kind of air pressure would hurt the hose? Any suggestions?

Thanks, Ryan

[dmorrison]

Here you go.

http://www.mytoolstore.com/kd/kdengi14.html#901

Dave

[rgnprof]

Thanks Dave, that's exactly what I was looking for - appreciate the help!

Ryan

You can get an adapter at NAPA. I bought one a couple of months ago for like $3.
Tim

[rgnprof]

I didn't find one at NAPA, but I did find one at O'Reilys - here in OKlahoma, and it was cheaper than online. I am ready to try this but I have run into a few problems. I have another 250 cylinder head that I have been "practicing" on and I bought a universal spring compressor at O'Reilly's as well. I don't know if it will work and I can't find the right spring compressor. This one doesn't seem to compress the valve spring retainer down far enough to release the valve keepers. I was able to get them off on the "practice" head, but it's not on a car! Anyone know where I can get the right spring compressor? Also, I have the exhaust stem seal installer (11mm), but I don't have the intake one (9mm). Do you think I can use the exhaust one to install the intake seals? And one more question, it seems that I only have to worry about the exhaust valves dropping down into the engine - the intake ones seem to catch and don't fall through - is that correct? ANd should I do one cylinder - both intake and exhaust at a time - only removing that spark plug and then replacing the sprngs, and rocker arm befoe moving to the next cylinder and removing that spark plug? Thanks in advance.

Ryan

[rgnprof]

Will the following valve spring compressor work on my '72 250?

http://www.mytoolstore.com/kd/kdengi13.html#3087

VALVE SPRING COMPRESSOR
KD 3087 $49.95

Tool compresses valve springs on most overhead valve engines, including GM, Ford, Chrysler, Nissan and Toyota. Tool can be used with cylinder head on or off the engine. Jaws adjust to fit over spring retaining washer, and an adjustable handle allows for easy clearance in tight areas. A GM adapter is included. Use 3269 Fulcrum Rail if overhead cam is not available. Use with 901 or 2992 Air Hold Fittings to keep valve in place. Caution: Vehicle must be placed in park/neutral before applying air pressure, otherwise vehicle may move. Keep hands clear of fan, belts and pulleys since slight crankshaft rotation will occur.

Yes, that is exactly what my mechanic had to do my 4.5. I am not sure if you have an overhead cam. If you do then yes. If not then you need the one for overhead valves.
Tim

What kind of car is this?
Tim

[rgnprof]

1972 250 W114 chassis and it does have an overhead cam.

Well, then you will need the one that you mentioned in the earlier posting.
Tim

[ctaylor738]

I got mine from Assenmacher Specialty Tool (www.asttool.com) - I think you have to call them. It was not cheap.

I have heard that K-D makes a good one that is cheaper.