DIY Guide: Changing the Intake Valve Spring Retainers on Your AP1 Honda S2000
Welcome back, S2000 enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving into a crucial maintenance task that can save your beloved AP1 from catastrophic engine damage: changing the intake valve spring retainers. If you’re unsure about the history of your vehicle or just want some peace of mind, this is an essential step.
Why Change Your Valve Spring Retainers?
The F20C1 engine in the AP1 S2000 is a high-revving masterpiece. However, if the engine has ever been mechanically over-revved, the intake valve spring retainers can crack without any obvious signs. These cracked retainers may not show symptoms for thousands of miles but can suddenly fail, leading to a dropped valve and devastating damage to your engine. Replacing these retainers is not just a preventative measure; it’s an investment in your engine’s health!
Tools and Materials Needed
New AP2 intake valve spring retainers and keepers (8 retainers, 16 keepers)
Retainers - part number 14765-PRB-A01
Keepers- part number 14781-PCX-004
Compressed air setup I like this hose with the check valve and I used this compressor
Hammer-style valve spring removal tool
Valve spring compressor
Basic hand tools (ratchets, sockets, etc.)
Torque wrench
I do prefer this extended swivel ratcheting 19MM to turn the crank without removing the intake.
Step-by-Step Process
1. Prepare Your Workspace
Make sure you have a clean, organized workspace with plenty of light. Gather all your tools and materials.
2. Disconnect the Battery
Always start by disconnecting the negative terminal of the battery to avoid any electrical shorts.
3. Remove the Coilpack Cover and Coilpacks
Unscrew and carefully remove the coilpack cover.
Take out the coilpacks by disconnecting the connectors and lifting them out.
4. Remove the Valve Cover
Unscrew and remove the valve cover to access the engine’s internals.
5. Set Engine to TDC (Top Dead Center) for Cylinder 1
Rotate the crankshaft until the timing marks on the camshafts and crank gear align for TDC.
6. Mark Camshafts and Crank Gear
Use a marker to note the position of the camshafts and crank gear to ensure everything aligns during reassembly.
7. Remove the Camshafts
Carefully unbolt and remove the camshafts, taking care not to lose any shims or components.
8. Remove the Rocker Assembly
Gently push the rocker assembly together while lifting it off to avoid losing the VTEC actuating pins and springs.
9. Apply Compressed Air to Cylinder 1
Insert your air tool into the spark plug hole to keep the valves closed while you work.
10. Remove Old Retainers
Using the hammer-style removal tool, gently tap to remove the old retainers and keepers. Be careful not to hit too hard and risk damaging the valves.
11. Install New Retainers
Position the valve spring compressor tool over the valve spring. Compress the spring to install the new AP2 retainers and keepers.
12. Release the Air Pressure
Carefully release the air pressure from Cylinder 1 and ensure everything is seated properly.
13. Repeat for Remaining Cylinders
Move to the next cylinder and repeat the process. Remember, it’s recommended to only change the intake side retainers, as doing the exhaust can add unnecessary weight that might cause valve float during over-revving.
14. Reassemble the Engine
Reinstall the rocker assembly, camshafts, and valve cover, following proper torque specifications:
Valve Cover/Coil Cover Bolts: 8.7 lb-ft
Spark Plugs: 21 lb-ft
Camshaft Holder: 16 lb-ft
Torque Sequence for Valve Cover:
17 9 3 11 19
15 7 1 5 13
14 6 2 8 16
20 12 4 10 18
Don’t forget to reconnect your coilpacks and the coilpack cover.
15. Final Steps
Perform a valve adjustment. For detailed steps on this, check out my DIY Valve Adjustment Guide.
Conclusion
Changing the intake valve spring retainers on your AP1 Honda S2000 is a critical maintenance task that can protect your engine from severe damage. This DIY process may seem daunting, but with patience and care, you can ensure your S2000 stays healthy and ready to hit the road. If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to drop a comment!
Happy wrenching! 🚗💨
