The Ultimate Guide to Checking Valve Spring Coil Bind: How to Check Valve Spring Coil Bind Like a Pro

The heart of your engine, the combustion chamber, relies on precise valve timing to deliver optimal performance. Valve springs, those tireless workhorses, ensure the valves open and close at just the right moment. But what happens when these springs lose their spring? Enter the dreaded ‘coil bind‘, a condition that can wreak havoc on your engine’s health. Knowing how to check valve spring coil bind is crucial for maintaining peak engine performance and preventing costly repairs.

Understanding Coil Bind: The Enemy of Valve Spring Performance

Imagine a spring compressed beyond its designed limits. That’s essentially what coil bind is – the spring’s coils are forced to touch, preventing it from functioning properly. This can occur due to various factors, including:

• Excessive valve lift: Aggressive camshafts designed for high performance can increase valve lift, potentially pushing the spring beyond its intended range.
• Improper spring installation: Incorrectly installed springs, whether too short or too long, can lead to coil bind.
• Worn valve springs: Over time, valve springs can lose their tension and become fatigued, making them more susceptible to coil bind.
• Improper valve adjustment: Incorrectly adjusted valve lash can contribute to coil bind by forcing the spring to compress further than intended.

The Consequences of Ignoring Coil Bind

Coil bind is not a benign condition. It can lead to a cascade of problems, including:

• Valve float: The valve may not close properly, leading to a loss of compression and power. This can result in a rough idle, misfires, and even engine damage.
• Valve bounce: The valve may bounce off its seat at high RPMs, causing premature wear and tear.
• Valve damage: Excessive valve lift and bounce can damage the valve itself, leading to bent or broken valves.
• Camshaft damage: The constant hammering of the valve against the camshaft can wear down the camshaft lobes, leading to decreased performance and potential engine failure.

How to Check Valve Spring Coil Bind: A Step-by-Step Guide

Checking for coil bind requires a bit of mechanical know-how and specialized tools. Here’s a breakdown of the process:

1. Gather Your Tools: You’ll need a valve spring compressor, a set of feeler gauges, a torque wrench, and a reliable engine repair manual specific to your vehicle.

2. Remove the Cylinder Head: This is a crucial step, as you need access to the valve springs themselves. Refer to your repair manual for the specific procedure for removing the cylinder head on your vehicle.

3. Compress the Spring: Carefully use the valve spring compressor to compress the spring. As you compress the spring, observe its behavior closely.

4. Check for Contact: As the spring compresses, look for any signs of the coils touching. If you see the coils touching or feel resistance beyond the expected compression, coil bind is present.

5. Measure Spring Height: Using your feeler gauges, measure the distance between the valve spring’s top and bottom when compressed. Compare this measurement to the manufacturer’s specifications for your vehicle. If the measured height is less than the specified height, coil bind is likely.

6. Examine the Spring: Inspect the spring for any signs of wear, damage, or fatigue. If you notice any abnormalities, the spring should be replaced.

Preventing Coil Bind: A Proactive Approach

The best way to deal with coil bind is to prevent it in the first place. Here are some preventative measures you can take:

• Use High-Quality Springs: Always choose valve springs that are specifically designed for your engine and camshaft. Don’t compromise on quality when it comes to valve springs.
• Proper Installation: Ensure that the valve springs are installed correctly and that the spring retainer clips are properly seated. Refer to your repair manual for detailed instructions.
• Regular Maintenance: Inspect your valve springs regularly for signs of wear or damage. Replace them as needed to prevent coil bind.
• Avoid Aggressive Tuning: If you’re planning on modifying your engine with a high-performance camshaft, consider the impact on the valve springs. Choose springs that can handle the increased valve lift and stress.

Coil Bind: A Sign of Underlying Issues

While coil bind can be caused by worn springs, it can also be a symptom of other problems. Here are some potential causes to investigate:

• Incorrect Valve Lash Adjustment: If the valve lash is too tight, it can force the valve spring to compress further, leading to coil bind.
• Bent Pushrods: A bent pushrod can cause the valve to open further than intended, putting stress on the valve spring.
• Damaged Cam Followers: Damaged cam followers can lead to incorrect valve lift and increased stress on the valve springs.

Beyond the Basics: Advanced Coil Bind Detection

For more advanced diagnostics, you can use a valve spring tester or a pressure gauge. These tools can provide more precise measurements of spring tension and compression. However, using these tools typically requires specialized knowledge and experience.

A Final Word: Don’t Take Coil Bind Lightly

Ignoring coil bind can lead to serious engine damage. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and prevention methods, you can keep your engine running smoothly and prevent costly repairs. If you suspect coil bind, it’s always best to consult a qualified mechanic for diagnosis and repair.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q: Can I check for coil bind without removing the cylinder head?

A: While you can check for coil bind without removing the cylinder head, it’s not recommended. You’ll have limited access to the springs and won’t be able to accurately measure their compression. Removing the cylinder head provides the best access and visibility for a thorough inspection.

Q: How often should I check my valve springs?

A: The frequency of valve spring inspections depends on factors like driving conditions, engine modifications, and the age of the springs. As a general guideline, it’s a good idea to inspect them every 50,000 miles or every 2-3 years.

Q: Can I replace valve springs myself?

A: Replacing valve springs requires specialized tools and knowledge. If you’re not comfortable working on your engine, it’s best to leave this task to a qualified mechanic.

Q: What are the signs of worn valve springs?

A: Worn valve springs can exhibit symptoms like rough idle, misfires, decreased power, and a loud ticking or rattling noise coming from the engine.

Q: What are the alternatives to checking for coil bind?

A: While checking for coil bind is the most direct way to assess spring function, you can also use other methods like listening for unusual engine noises, measuring valve lift, and inspecting the springs for visible signs of wear.