Davis Bellew Subaru owners, whether you’re a novice or an expert in car mechanics, it’s essential to keep your car’s engine running efficiently. One of the crucial components that affect the performance of your engine is the valve springs. Over time, these springs may wear out and cause significant damage if not replaced. With this guide, we’ll show you the step-by-step process of replacing Subaru valve springs, saving you money on maintenance and boosting your car’s performance.
The Importance of Valve Springs
Before diving into the valve spring replacement procedure, it’s essential to understand the critical role that valve springs play in your car’s engine performance. Valve springs are responsible for opening and closing the engine valves to allow air and fuel into the combustion chamber and to expel exhaust gases. When the engine runs, the valve springs are under significant stress and can wear out with time and usage. Worn out valve springs can cause serious engine damage, including bent valves, damaged pistons, and in severe cases, engine failure.
Tools and Equipment Needed
The following tools and equipment are necessary for replacing Subaru valve springs.
- A socket wrench set
- A torque wrench
- Needle-nose pliers
- A valve spring compressor
- Shop towels
- New valve springs and retainers
Step-by-step Procedure
Follow these steps to replace the valve springs in your Subaru:
- Disconnect the battery – To ensure your safety, disconnect the battery’s negative terminal before you begin any work under the hood.
- Remove the valve cover – Use a socket wrench to remove the bolts that hold the valve cover in place. Using shop towels, clean the exposed parts of the engine to prevent dirt or debris from falling into the engine.
- Remove the camshaft carrier – Using a torque wrench, remove the bolts that hold the camshaft carrier in place. Be careful not to strip the bolts.
- Remove the valve springs – Using a valve spring compressor, compress the valve spring and remove the valve keepers that secure the spring in position. Carefully remove the valve spring and retainer.
- Install new valve springs – Carefully install new valve springs and retainers. Make sure that they are aligned and seated correctly.
- Reassemble the engine – Reinstall the camshaft carrier and valve cover. Use a torque wrench to tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications.
- Reconnect the battery – Reconnect the negative terminal of the battery.
Troubleshooting Tips
Sometimes, issues may arise during the valve spring replacement process. Here are some troubleshooting tips to help you out.
- Alignment and fitting problems – If the valve spring and retainer do not fit correctly, check if the springs are compressed or tensioned in the wrong direction. Also, ensure that the valve spring compressors and retainers are compatible with your car model.
- Loose bolts – Always ensure that bolts are well tightened to avoid loosening while driving, which can lead to significant engine problems.
Subaru Valve Spring Replacement FAQs
Q: Is it possible to replace valve springs without a valve spring compressor?
A: It would be best to have a valve spring compressor to replace valve springs to make the process easier and safer.
Q: How often should I replace my Subaru valve springs?
A: It’s recommended to replace your valve springs every 60,000 – 100,000 miles to avoid engine problems.
Q: Can I replace valve springs on my own?
A: Yes, with the right tools and equipment and following the proper procedures, you can replace valve springs on your own.
With this guide, you can replace Subaru valve springs with confidence and ensure that your engine is running smoothly with improved performance. This DIY project will undoubtedly save you money on maintenance and bring you a step closer to becoming a Subaru expert.
