Step-By-Step Guide to Safely Removing LS7 Valve Springs for Engine Builds

Removing LS7 Valve Springs for an Engine Build

The LS7 valve springs are an important component when building a high performance LS engine. Upgrading or replacing these springs allows the engine to rev higher and make more power. However, removing the stock LS7 springs can be tricky without the right tools and knowledge. In this article, we'll walk through the step-by-step process to properly remove LS7 valve springs to prepare for an engine build.

Tools Needed

Removing LS7 valve springs requires some specialty tools to do it properly. Here are the essential items you'll need:

• Spring compressor
• 7/16" and 3/8" ratchets
• 7/16" and 3/8" 12-point sockets
• Needle nose pliers
• Valve spring removal tool
• Valve keepers
• Valve spring height micrometer

The spring compressor and valve spring removal tools are designed specifically for this task. Using the proper specialty tools will make the job much easier and prevent damage to the valve stems and seats.

Safety Tips

When removing valve springs, safety should always be top priority. Here are some important safety tips:

• Wear ANSI approved safety glasses
• Use extreme caution when compressing the valve springs
• Make sure the spring compressor is properly seated before compressing
• Slowly release the compression on the springs to avoid injury
• Never use vice grip style compressors on assembled cylinder heads

Following these precautions will help prevent spring compressor slippage and injury from the rapidly expanding springs. It's also a good idea to only remove one spring at a time to avoid mixing up components.

Step-by-Step Removal Process

With the proper tools on hand and safety in mind, here is the complete process for removing LS7 valve springs:

1. Remove the valve covers to expose the valve train.
2. Use a permanent marker to mark and number each spring cap location for proper reassembly later.
3. Install the spring removal tool and position it to hold the valve spring retainer down.
4. Slide the spring compressor over the top of the valve spring and seat it properly on the cylinder head.
5. Slowly compress the valve spring until the retainer locks come free.
6. Use needle nose pliers to remove the retainer locks and release the spring compressor.
7. Carefully remove the spring retainer, valve spring, and valve spring shim.
8. Use a caliper or micrometer to measure and record the installed spring height for reference.
9. Repeat steps 3-8 for the remaining cylinder head valves.
10. Once all springs are removed, thoroughly clean the cylinder head valve train components.

Following these steps will allow you to safely remove the LS7 valve springs with the correct tools. Be sure to keep all components organized in the same order they were removed.

Inspecting LS7 Valve Springs

With the springs removed, this is an ideal time to inspect them for wear and proper fitment. Here are some things to check:

• Measure free height and compare to factory spec
• Check for cracked or broken springs
• Inspect for bent or damaged spring tops
• Look for excessive corrosion or rust
• Confirm proper spring rate with a spring tester

The LS7 valve springs should have a free height around 2.02". Any springs that are corroded, broken, or more than 2% off on spring rate need to be replaced. This inspection will confirm the condition of the existing springs.

Installing Upgraded LS7 Springs

Once the stock springs are removed, you can install upgraded valve springs to handle increased lift and RPM. Here are some tips for installing new springs:

• Make sure the replacement springs match the LS7 head's valve angle and seat style
• Lubricate the springs, retainers, and locks with assembly lube
• Use proper spring height for the camshaft to avoid coil bind
• Slowly release the compressor to seat the springs
• Double check that locks are fully seated in the retainers

With stiffer springs, you'll be able to take advantage of more aggressive cams and engine speeds above 7,000 rpm. Just be sure to match the springs to the valve lift and check coil bind clearance.

Conclusion

Removing LS7 valve springs takes time, patience, and the proper tools. But this process is necessary when rebuilding high performance LS engines. Follow the step-by-step guide carefully, work slowly, and focus on safety. Once the old springs are removed, inspect them closely before installing upgraded components to handle higher lift and rpm. With some technical know-how, you can tackle LS7 valve spring removal and upgrade your engine's capability.

FAQs

What size socket is needed to remove the LS7 valve springs?

You'll need a 7/16" 12-point socket to remove the valve spring retainers on LS7 cylinder heads.

What is the factory installed height for LS7 valve springs?

The stock installed height for LS7 valve springs is around 2.02 inches.

Do I need to replace the LS7 valve locks when installing new springs?

It's recommended to install new valve locks or seals any time the valve springs are removed to ensure proper fitment.

What causes an LS7 valve spring to break?

Excessive valve lift, high RPM, and coil bind are common causes of broken valve springs. Using improper spring installation height can also lead to spring failure.

How much lift can stock LS7 valve springs handle?

The factory LS7 valve springs can typically handle up to around 0.600 inches of valve lift before needing to be upgraded.