Questions and Answers

Replacing Mazda Protege Valve Seals Q. I need to replace the valve seals on my 1993 Mazda Protege 1.8 liter DOHC without removing the head. The valve springs are not very accessible even after you remove the hydraulic lifter which sits on top of the valve. I unsuccessfully tried to buy a spring compressor tool from my local Mazda dealer. The parts department said they don't sell tools.

I also tried to locate a Mazda special tool for this purpose on the web. My question is; Is a Mazda special spring compressor tool needed for this job? If so where can I buy one? if not what type do I use?

Thanks in advance for your help.

A. You can send an e-mail to Kent-Moore. I'm almost sure they will sell you the special Service Tool (SST).

I actually have several different valve spring compressors. I just use whichever one does the job. Here are some good ones from K-D Tools. K-D Tools are readily available from most parts stores.

K-D Tools P/N KD 912	K-D Tools P/N KD 3087
K-D Tools P/N KD 3271
K-D Tools P/N KD 379	K-D Tools P/N KD 700