Broken AFR165 valve spring - wtf??

[rockin_rick]

My new engine just started running rough and I discovered coolant mixed in the oil. (see - http://forums.stangnet.com/showthread.php?t=479348
or
http://members.pro3i.com/forums/showthread.php?t=479348 )

I did a compression test today and found #4 dead. I pulled the valve cover and had a look and discovered that the #4 exhaust valve spring (AFR part #8015, part of 8032 upgrade package) was broken! WTF? This is a brand new engine and I've been easy on it, and have the rev limiter set to 4000 (via TwEECer). When it broke, I was just cruising along, at about 1600 rpms (as shown in my TwEECer datalog).

This is not the first time I've had a problem with these AFR valve springs. (see - http://forums.stangnet.com/showthread.php?t=437285
or
http://members.pro3i.com/forums/showthread.php?t=437285 )

**********************

What can cause this?

Is defective workmanship the only cause? In other words - can AFR claim that this is NOT their fault?

Is my valve, guide, seal, seat, etc. damaged?

Are these AFR springs garbage? Should I get a different set / brand?


Thanks,
Rick

 

[cardudeusa]

Almost looks like the rocker arm is off center. Maby it put too much pressure on just part of the spring and cracked/ broke it.

 

[Sgt.5point0]

Sheit, that stinks man. I have 165's myself and I have had them to 6000RPM+ several times on the springs that come with the heads and no problems. I do plan to upgrade to some heavier springs this winter though, maybe double springs.

 

[Rick 91GT]

Contact Ed @ FTI, he will set you up with the correct spring and seals which are better then the AFR upgrade.

 

[Dark Knight]

ok, so why was there coolant in the oil? a broken valve spring wont cause that..
you dont see valve springs break often.. did you check for coil bind? and was the spring on the same valve as the messed up one? what about oil flow? if you arent getting much oil to the spring, or it's running dry, that will happen too..

I've had my AFR's on the car for over 2 years of daily driving with no probs..
maybe you're jinxed