valve stem seals

[LocoLobo]

is there any special way for removing the valve stem seals, i've got my heads off and valves out because i figured i'd clean them since i've got my engine appart right now. is there any special tool to remove/replace the valve stem seals? or do i just have to man handle them out and beat them back in?

 

[SVT#4967]

not sure if you already got them out or if you are still looking for a way...

but I bought and used these...
http://www.thetoolwarehouse.net/shop/SP-92350.html

They worked great. Light to moderate pressure is all that is required, then pull the seal out. The harder you squeeze the more work you are causing yourself because you are making it tighter on the valve guide.

You can probably use regular pliers but I bought these and they worked great. Recently used them while rebuilding a friends GSR head from his Civic.

To install the new seals, I used the end of my valve spring compressor and a rubber mallet to tap the seals back into place.

This is the valve spring compressor I have...
http://www.thetoolwarehouse.net/shop/SP-91400A.html

I used the part that pushes down on the retainer to remove the keepers, fit nicely over the valve stem seal, a couple light taps with the mallet and they were in place.

 

[LocoLobo]

thanks man, i still haven't removed them i've kinda put the heads aside for the time. i was thinking about taking the heads minus the valves to a shop and seeing how much they would charge to replace them.