Spring Compression Tester

[IamScotticus]

Can anyone vouch for this type of tool?  They're selling for  $70-90 on Amz

 

[MV8]

Should work fine. Not much to go wrong. A short cylinder and a pressure gauge.

[IamScotticus]

I suppose consistent tension across springs is more important than actual tension?

[MV8]

Just trying to prevent valve bounce and float at high rpm. Looking for adequate pressure for the cam recommendation for rpm range and no more. Anything more than what is necessary just increases wear on the cam and valve train and makes zinc additive more important. Factory roller cams typically have very low spring pressures and don't need as much zinc (if memory serves, the early roller 5.0l mustang had 65 lbs closed). In my experience, lower than recommended pressure springs can be used without issue but I don't tend to rev near the limits.

Tapered or "bee hive" springs are better in part because they allow more compression before spring bind, allow a lighter, smaller od valve keeper, and weigh less because less wire is needed to make one. Smaller valve stem seals may be required to clear the smaller id coils. There is a drill bit/cutter for machining the guide. It pilots off the guide bore.