Greetings,

I need to replace the valve stem seals. I probably can't get a HeadGasket locally and they're more $ than i have to spend at the moment. I've read about the trick, where you feed a rope into the cylinder and compress with piston to keep the valve from dropping out when you remove the keeper and spring.

My head has dual valve springs. Has anyone attempted this on a b20f head and if so, is there a magical valve spring compressor to use or a home-made special tool anyone has had success with. I'm guessing the dual springs make it harder. My local parts loaner store only has the compressor which requires head removal.

I really wish i changed them when i replaced the blown gasket last year, they did come in the gasket set and they've been sitting on the shelf lauging at me.

Can it be done or should i just by a new HG?

Are the seals usually standard even for a modified head?

Any tips, ideas, or wisdom are greatly appreciated.

thanks for your time,
curtis m. white