ive got the valve spring tool that sits on the top of the retainer and has claws to hook the bottom of the valve spring. When i set it up and compress the spring nothing happens. its like the spring is still keeping pressure against the valve stem and keepers. The spring is compressed because i can move the valve up and down, they just wont seperate. Is this just because of the age of the motor or am i doing something wrong.
Thanks,
Dane

What type of compressor do you have?

Does it look like this?


if so, you need to press down on the top of the retainer with the forks to press the retainer down and then remove the locks from the valve stem.

no, but i wish i did my is more like a gear puller for vavle springs

hrm...I've never seen one like that...you could always try the good 'ol socket-over-the-retainer-and-hit-it-with-a-hammer approach. I've done that before I bought a compressor...

this is what it looks like

I know exactly what you are talking about. Everything is just a little stuck together. Before I compress the springs (using the same tool you have), I make sure to break the retainer/spring/valve stem connection loose. I use a large socket, sized so that it's inner diameter is large enough for the valve stem and the retainers to fit into. The outside of the socket should be almost as large a diameter as the valve springs. Hold the socket centered on the valve spring assembly, and give it a few hammer taps. You'll be able to feel the socket compress the spring, and should be able to see things loosen up as you do it. It will make more sense when you stand out there under the hood with a big socket. Once you loosen them up like that, they should compress just fine. If any do like they have been and try to just lift the bottom of the spring, try suddenly pushing it down to pull the top of the spring and the retainers away from the valve stem.

Oh, I assume that you are using compressed air to help hold the valves in place? This is important!

if the heads are off the engine take a deep socket and a BFH and place the socket on top of the retainer and hit it. takes about two minutes to disassemble a set of v8 heads. if the heads are on the engine compress the spring and push down on it after it compresses it's just stuck together, nother really holding it but a lot of miles.