bot one from autozone but a buddy of mine sed they are junk. sez he heard our motors use a different type anyway?

 

Sir what exactly did you want to know.

 

what be best type of tool to buy and where to get it.

 

I am sure your local auto parts store will have what you need.

 

This type is best.
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/SUM-906784/

but you can make your own from scrap steel like this one
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/MAN-41830/
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/WMR-W84002/

Preferably use thick flat bar instead of flimsy bent metal like those shown

 

I bought this one and it's a tank:
http://www.jegs.com/i/Proform/778/66832/10002/-1


it compresses the 450lb springs on my LS3 heads like they're not even there.

I don't trust that stud mount style like vetteoz linked to, especially on aluminum heads. I'm afraid that too much side force on the stud can cause the boss in the head to break or strip. It might not be a problem on SBC heads, but I've read of more than one horror story on ls1tech about a style used on LS heads.

 

Doesn't do much good when the heads are on the block, though.

 

If you're just doing a single springs and seals swap, try the cheap one. If it fails or bends, take it back and buy a better one next time. I did exactly that with a tie rod puller tool recently when I pulled the steering box. It bent, I took it back and I'll buy a better one when I next need one.

Or if you're going to use it on a regular basis, consider upgrading.

I've never used anything but the cheap lever type or the cheap threaded type and never cared about upgrading.

The front section of Haynes manuals that tells you to buy cheap tools first and upgrade as needed (read it) really makes good sense.

 

True enough. It's the way to go if they're off the motor.

 

I had one of these types break on me. PRobably user error but it didnt seem very sturdy.

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/SUM-906784/

So I went back and bought one of the little kinds that have a rotating handle and a couple of claws hanging down. Looks more like some kind of puller than a valve spring compressor. But it worked flawlessly for me. Only problem is it hurts your fingers to crank down on the springs manually, but at least it didnt break, and Im no sissy man, I can handle it.

http://www.google.com/products/catal...ed=0CGwQ8wIwBQ

Its one of those. Mine didnt have the handy plastic thing over the handle, not nearly as comfortable looking.