Brand new 2078

In order to compress the spring to easily remove the snap ring, a modified KD Tools Model# 2078 “Overhead Valve Spring Compressor” can be used effectively.

Original tool pulling to the side

The 2078 can be used without modifying, but the problem is that this tool was designed to grab on to the spiral of the spring. In order to do this, the two arms are made to different lengths. We want a tool that reaches around and grabs the bottom of the spring cup, which requires arms of equal length. So the unmodified tool will work, but it is kind of awkward as it pulls over to one side.

The modification requires that you buy two of these units, or cut and weld one of the arms. To modify this tool without cutting and welding, get two of them. Take the first unit and grind off the pin head that holds the long arm on.  On the next unit, grind off the pin head that holds the short arm on. Now swap arms so that one pair gets both short arms and one pair gets both the long arms.  Use a 1/4″ bolt with a shoulder long enough to extend to the other side of the tool, loctite a nut on, and trim the bolt flush.

KD Tools – http://www.kd-tools.com/

Now it will compress the spring evenly and not pull to one side.  See the pictures below.

Written for Hanson Hydraulics Ltd. Blog.