Predator

Fellas, where can I pick up a spark plug fitting for my air compressor to swap out the springs? TByrne has a kit with a spring compressor and fittings for $49.95, but all I really need is the spark plug fitting. Is there anywhere (either online or in a store) that I can purchase just the fitting?

Another option is the TDC method, which I'd like to do, but I'm not confident that I won't run into problems. If anyone has used this method and found it foolproof and easy, tell me about your experience. I'd rather not bother with the air compressor, but if that's the best way to go, where can I get the fitting?

Thanks.

PREDATOR-Z

Do the TDC method much more reliabe and prevents valve drop in case of air pressure loss.
Dot to dot cylinder #1 and #6
1/4 turn #8 and #5
1/4 turn #7 and #4
1/4 turn #3 and #2
. piece of cake.

I can never remember the firing order Had to look it up

LS firing order 1 8 7 2 6 5 4 3

The only way you can mess up is if you do not know which cylinder is which. So facing the engine from front
Hope this helps. Best of all, it's FREE and super safe against valve drop.

Predator

Thanks for the millioneth time PZ! You're always there with the help I need.

jmx's site explains the procedure, but the biggest help was your reassurance that the TDC method is a good way to go.

What had me freaked out was that someone on ls1.com asked the same question, and XTrooper said: do yourself a favor and use a compressor because it will take you forever using the TDC method. If it wasn't for that comment, I don't think I ever would hesitated to go that route.

Anyway, thanks again!

PREDATOR-Z

Forgot to tell you to rotate the crank CLOCKWISE 1/4 turn or 90 degrees at a time.

Predator

PZ, jmx's site says to do:

1+6, rotate 90*
8+5, rotate 90*
7+4, rotate 90*
3+2, rotate 90*

Is that correct, or is it 1 8/ 7 2/ 6 5/ 4 3?

Thanks!!

PREDATOR-Z

Yeap correct, I was in process of editing.
Another way to check is you remove the rockers but leave the p-rods in. You'll notice that the pistons at TDC will have both p-rods all the way down.

PREDATOR-Z

Sorry, 11 hour shift, I am tired (need more coffee )

Here are 2 threads that will help you understand and to reasure you.

https://ls1tech.com/forums/generation-iii-internal-engine/2683-valvespring-change-w-o-compressor.html
https://ls1tech.com/forums/generation-iii-internal-engine/64552-1-piston-tdc-what-remaining-pistons-doing.html

Predator

PZ, I shoulda done a more thorough search but cool of you to just post those links . Thanks!!!

You're probably on your way to bed, but I was hoping I could throw one more quick question at you: would I be foolish NOT to get titanium retainers? If it's not going to matter either way, I'd just as soon pocket the hundred bucks, but if you recommend that it's a real good idea to get them, I will.

Get some sleep!!!

Thanks again!

Predator

PZ, also, GREAT tip about removing the rocker arms and checking the pushrods.

Thanks!!!

PREDATOR-Z

I know it is a pain (to spend so much money), but let's put it this way, I would (get the Tit retainers, new valve seals, Hard p-rods, and locks) I think you can get a complete setup from TSP for like $290 (springs and everything)

Predator

PZ, that's what I'm gonna do, then.

If I'm not ready to tackle my install now, I'll never be.

Thankyou for your patient help! And I'll let you know how it goes (as you mentioned).

Thanks!!!!