What's the proper type of valve spring compressor I should use on my 68 200 cu in when replacing the valve stem seals?

 

Is the head still in the car?

 

Yes.......

 

I don't know that the valves/springs are set up any differently on a 6 than an 8, there are pretty much 3 choices IIRC > $ lever, $$ screw type, $$$ pliers type.
http://www.kd-tools.com/enginevalve.htm

You will also need a compressor and a hose with fitting to pressurize the cylinder you're working on so the valve doesn't just drop into the cylinder when you remove the spring.
http://www.kd-tools.com/901.htm

The screw type is available at most parts stores, sears, etc. it just gets old twisting the **** enough times to compress the spring, I think I'll invest in the plyer type, one squeeze and it's compressed.
Jon

 

What's the rope method? Don't have an air compressor.

 

The rope method involves bringing the cylinder to TDC and then filling the combustion chamber up with rope via the spark plug hole so the valve will not drop. I personally have never tried it, but it sounds painful and if you screw up you have to pull the heads.

 

Just did it a month ago, nothing to it. Easy as can be. 1/2 cord will work, maybe a tad smaller diameter. You'll know if it's pushing the valves when you compress the spring. If it's not, back off the piston, back out the rope and twist and push it back in. DON'T remove the keepers until you KNOW the piston is pushing the valve closed. They may drop a 1/8 of an inch, but as long as they don't slide down more when the spring is compressed the rope is doing it's job.
I myself would rather trust a mechanical piece of rope rather than a compressor that trips a breaker and watch the valve stem slip away.