How do I know if my valve spring is broken?

How do I know if my valve spring is broken?

Valve springs should also be replaced if they are out-of-square. If the spring leans to one side more than about 1/32 inch when placed against a 90 degree square, the coils have deformed and the valve spring needs to be replaced.

What can cause a broken valve spring?

The broken springs are usually a mismatched spring for the cam. Usually coil bind is a reason or to weak a spring for that particular cam causing valve float.

Can weak valve springs cause low compression?

Broken or weak valve springs in an engine can cause many different drivability and performance problems. Broken valve springs cause excessive valve noise, compression loss and can cause severe internal engine damage. The actual breaking of the valve springs is not always the most serious consequence.

What does shimming a valve spring do?

When shimming valve springs you are trying to keep the characteristics the same but also retain the seat pressure that you lost from cutting the seat or wear from use. A loss of seat pressure could cause valve float, premature wear and loss of compression.

Are valve spring shims necessary?

If the distance is too little, machining of the valvespring seat will be necessary. If the distance is too great, then valvespring shims will need to be added.

How often do valve springs need to be replaced?

Spring pressures should be checked once a year or every 15K miles. Proper maintenance does not mean they will need replacing. Some springs can last more than 30k if properly installed.

When should you shim valve springs?

If the installed height is outside of the allowed 0.020-inch variance, then action will need to be taken. If the distance is too little, machining of the valvespring seat will be necessary. If the distance is too great, then valvespring shims will need to be added.

Why do some valve springs need to use shims?

What causes loss of compression?

Compression loss is a result of a leak in one or more of the cylinders caused by normal engine wear and tear. If you experience compression loss in one cylinder of the engine, it can cause misfiring and poor vehicle performance. A decrease in power output is a sign of worn-out internal parts.