348 valve removal tool

Pulled the heads on my 348 spider. Plan to do a top end job while the motor is out of the Ferrari. Problem is I cannot locate a suitable valve spring compressor to remove the valves. My old C clamp style compressor is made for exposed valve spring type heads. Snap On also lists a tool for exposed springs but none that I can find for recessed springs. A source for the correct tool would be appreciated. Thanks.

 

You can make the tool out of an old socket if you can't find one. Ask an engine shop or give snap-on tools a call. They should be able to get you what you need.

 

Tbakowsky, thank you. Snap On does sell a “Tool, Overhead Valve” #GA318A. This is an impact type tool used with a soft face hammer, magnetically retains the keepers. Looks like I could remove easily with this tool. My concern is assembly. Never used this type of tool, only the old “C” clamp tool on American V-8’s.

 

Have you checked your local motorcycle shops? They have plenty of small overhead cam valve engines. They must have a C-clamp type for this, or a source for the tool.

 

Did your snap on tool work for your valve removal?

 

No Doubt, I ended up buying a SnapOn “C” type valve removal tool as used on American V-8’s. The correct tool was on backorder for an extended period if I recall correctly. I fabricated a hard rubber spacer to cover the valve face from mats in my basement gym to prevent any damage to the valve face or soft aluminum combustion chamber. As suggested by tbakowsky: To remove the below head surface valve springs, keepers etc I bought a craftsman long socket with an OD slightly smaller than the bore in the head. Cut a long rectangular slot in the side to allow access to the keepers. Compressed the assembly, removed keepers, released and disassembled. Reversed the procedure to assemble. Worked fine.

 

Thank you.