How to change valve springs? 04 gto

**ls1fan74** · 06-10-2009, 05:54 PM

I saw a sweet thread a few weeks back i just cant remember the title or where it exactly was! I've been searching and searching but can't find it....most of the threads are "i'm installing springs and ran into xx problem" I have a stock motor with 61,000 miles and want to either install new stock springs (got 'em for cheap..just preemptive due to mileage) or aftermarket...can any1 point me to a how-to or walkthrough? sorry if a repost

**Hi-Po** · 06-10-2009, 06:05 PM

LS1howto.com

Also, this tool will make it VERY easy.

**ls1fan74** · 06-10-2009, 06:38 PM

yeah i checked that out, it was a thread on here or ls1gto.com that looked easier lol....it was more in newb-type detail if you know what i mean

**Hi-Po** · 06-10-2009, 09:11 PM

Man, its really easy. Once you have your valve covers off, use just fill the cylinder with air(ebay sells this tooling or you can make your own) and then use that tool to compress spring, take lock out with a small pen magnet(might need to smack the top of valve before compressing to free lock up).. After you have the locks out, decompress spring using tool.... Put new springs in the same way they came out. Good idea to buy a few extra locks because you will probably lose a few.

**ls1fan74** · 06-13-2009, 04:27 PM

nice, thanks. And buying a new valve cover gasket? Or can i just use that permatex gasket-maker crap?

**mark21742** · 06-13-2009, 08:58 PM

Originally Posted by ls1fan74

nice, thanks. And buying a new valve cover gasket? Or can i just use that permatex gasket-maker crap?

i've had mine off and on several times and still using the same gasket....no need for permatex, it's made with good rubber

**ls1fan74** · 06-14-2009, 03:22 PM

okay cool....anything I need to know about taking the valve covers off?

**mark21742** · 06-15-2009, 07:55 AM

Originally Posted by ls1fan74

okay cool....anything I need to know about taking the valve covers off?

nope, just unplug and unbolt the coil packs, then unbolt the valve covers and pop them off.
if you have the plastic engine covers, they just pop right off