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I'm wanting to identify a brand, part number and hopefully a source for a valve spring compressor. I've seen the compressor in the engine chapter of the manual.

This is the type recommended but not sure if anyone has said whether they are available new. Apparently they can be found on ebay from time to time.

Are the springs so strong that I need the screw-in type or can I use the squeeze type like below?

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  Side Valve Compression Tool 1 - s-l500.jpg (26.00 KB)

They're pretty strong and the space is a bit cramped. You will want the ones with the know you can turn.

I have always used the large c-type that is more commonly used on overhead valve heads. They are big and somewhat awkward but can each even the center valves with the manifolds still in place.

I have both, but I was really only able to make use of the big C-shaped one when the engine was out of the car, it's pretty tight in there when you want to get to the valves at the back of the engine.

Here's one:

Flathead Valve Spring Compressor, Turning knob type

I think I'm going to try the screw type instead of the squeeze type. Can someone provide a picture or description of the keepers? Do I need a tool to remove or re-install the keepers?

The keepers are a pair of tapered half round pieces with a protruding section on the inside that fits in a groove on the valve stem. The pair completely surrounds the stem. The hole in the spring seat at the bottom of the springs fits around the narrow end of the keepers so seat pushing against the taper forces the keepers tightly into the stem groove and taper also keeps the seat and spring from sliding off the stem.

Once the spring compressor raises the seat above the keepers they will be free to come off. A small magnet will help grab them. You will inevitably drop some of them so it is advisable to have a rag covering the oil drain holes at the bottom of the valve chamber to prevent the small keepers from falling into the oil pan.

As said, the keepers are very small metal half-hollow cones. One of those magnets on the end of a telescoping rod is very useful. To put them back on, put a dab of grease on them, they will then stick to the valve stem.

Here is a link with some discussion

pulling the valves discussion

Does this look like a suitable valve spring tool for a 327? (53 Cavalier)

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  spring comp.jpg (61.42 KB)