Packard Forum Index » Post-War (1946-54)

Just finished getting all the valve stem clips seated after a valve job on my 49 288.This was a difficult and frustrating job,even though I used all the tricks (dab of grease, mirror etc). Can anyone share an easy way to do this short of pulling the engine?

Skills should improve with practice and repetition, factory-trained mechanics routinely completed valve jobs in less than a day with the engine in the car. Next time you do one I'll bet it will go easier and quicker. For many, removing the manifolds is worth the extra effort as it improves access.

Your "clips" are commonly known as valve stem "keepers".