Broken valve spring?

[BKOMAR]

I have had a "knock" or rattle in my engine that I have discussed here before. At the last PCA meeting I attended we discussed the noise and I was told that SC inner valve springs had a tendency to break. I adjusted the valves not too long ago (after the noise started) and didn't see anything broken but I wasn't specifically looking for it either. Can anyone enlighten me on the broken valve spring thing and possibly describe the noise that would make. Also... if it is a broken valve spring, can it be fixed without dropping the engine? To add to the noise thing...since it has been cold... the noise has not been as pronounced esp. at startup which leads me to think it is a clearance problem that is minimized by thick oil (cold) or something...? Brian

[Wayne 962]

A couple of things:

- No, valve springs don't have a tendency to break. It's a super-rare occurance - but possible.

- Yes, you can replace the springs with the engine in the car. You need a tool like this though:

http://www.pelicanparts.com/catalog/SuperCat/0804/POR_0804_ENGTOL_pg2.htm#item6

-Wayne