How to Replace Car Engine Valves

Introduction

The valves in a car engine are responsible for controlling the flow of air and fuel into and out of the cylinders. When the valves become worn or damaged, they can cause a number of problems, including poor engine performance, decreased fuel economy, and increased emissions. In some cases, a damaged valve can even cause the engine to seize up.

Replacing the valves in a car engine is a relatively complex task that requires specialized tools and knowledge. However, it is a job that can be completed by a skilled DIYer with the right instructions.

Tools and Materials

Valve spring compressor
Valve keepers
Valve seals
New valves
Valve grinding compound
Valve lapping tool
Torque wrench
Feeler gauge
Assembly lube

Safety Precautions

Always wear safety glasses and gloves when working on a car engine.
Allow the engine to cool completely before beginning work.
Disconnect the battery before starting work.
Be careful not to drop any tools or parts into the engine.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Remove the valve cover. The valve cover is located on top of the engine and is usually held in place by a few bolts. Once the bolts are removed, the valve cover can be lifted off.
Locate the valves that need to be replaced. The valves are located in the cylinder head and are usually made of steel or titanium. The intake valves are located on the side of the cylinder head that faces the intake manifold, while the exhaust valves are located on the side of the cylinder head that faces the exhaust manifold.
Compress the valve springs. The valve springs are located on top of the valves and are used to keep the valves closed. To compress the valve springs, you will need to use a valve spring compressor. Follow the instructions that came with the valve spring compressor to compress the springs.
Remove the valve keepers. The valve keepers are located on top of the valve springs and are used to hold the springs in place. To remove the valve keepers, you will need to use a pair of needle-nose pliers. Gently pry the valve keepers off of the valve stems.
Remove the old valves. Once the valve keepers have been removed, the old valves can be removed from the cylinder head. To remove the valves, simply lift them out of the cylinder head.
Clean the valve seats. The valve seats are located in the cylinder head and are where the valves seal against. Before installing the new valves, you will need to clean the valve seats. To clean the valve seats, use a valve seat cutter. Follow the instructions that came with the valve seat cutter to clean the valve seats.
Install the new valves. Once the valve seats have been cleaned, you can install the new valves. To install the new valves, simply insert them into the cylinder head and push them down until they are seated. Make sure that the new valves are installed in the correct orientation.
Install the valve keepers. Once the new valves have been installed, you can install the valve keepers. To install the valve keepers, simply place them on top of the valve stems and press them down until they snap into place.
Install the valve springs. Once the valve keepers have been installed, you can install the valve springs. To install the valve springs, simply place them on top of the valve stems and compress them using a valve spring compressor. Follow the instructions that came with the valve spring compressor to compress the springs.
Tighten the valve cover bolts. Once the valve springs have been installed, you can tighten the valve cover bolts. To tighten the valve cover bolts, use a torque wrench and follow the torque specifications that are listed in your vehicle’s repair manual.
Start the engine and check for leaks. Once the valve cover bolts have been tightened, you can start the engine. Let the engine run for a few minutes and then check for any leaks. If there are any leaks, tighten the valve cover bolts a little more.

Tips

If you are not comfortable replacing the valves yourself, you can take your car to a mechanic and have them do it for you.
Be sure to replace the valve seals when you replace the valves. The valve seals help to prevent oil from leaking into the combustion chambers.
If you are replacing the valves in a high-performance engine, you may want to use stainless steel valves. Stainless steel valves are more durable than standard steel valves and can withstand higher temperatures.
Always follow the torque specifications that are listed in your vehicle’s repair manual when tightening the valve cover bolts.

Conclusion

Replacing the valves in a car engine is a relatively complex task, but it is a job that can be completed by a skilled DIYer with the right instructions. By following the steps in this guide, you can replace the valves in your car engine and get it running like new again.