Newb question - removing valve spring

[rdubb17]

I have the tool rented and can get one style of spring off, however, the style with the outter ring that encompases the locks I can't get to push down. I have tried using a hammer and screwdriver but with no luck. The spring is completely loose and wiggles around, but I can't get the lockoff to remove the spring. Should I just hit the outter ring harder or is there a trick to this?

 

[hungrymonkey]

use a socket that fits over the valve stem, but hits the retainer. then give it a thump with a hammer.

I cannot remember if its a 1/2" socket or 9/16.

 

[hungrymonkey]

oh, and not to hard of a thump. just enough to bounce the spring and loosen the retainer.

 

[rdubb17]

With the valve spring compressor on there? I have a junk model (from autozone) so I can't fit anything on top when the compressor is on there.

 

[hungrymonkey]

ahh, is it the two fingers on top that compress the spring?

edit, the valve springs would be to much tension to use the socket alone.

 

[Grn92LX]

Hit it with a hammer to loosen the locks and have a magnetic tool handy.

 

[rdubb17]

Yea the problem is that its the "two finger" c-style

http://www.v6z24.com/mods/howto/images/valvelapping/lapping1.jpg

That crappy thing. Should I get a different model?