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thschmidkonz · Jan 28, 2009, 03:53 PM

I would like to know,"IF":It is possible to,"Change the valve stem seals,on a 1988 Honda Civic,1.6 liter,"WITHOUT" removing the head"?

Please refer me to a source of information which will instruct me as to:How to do that repair.Thank you!. :)

CaptainRich · Jan 28, 2009, 05:28 PM

You should be able to.
First, remove the rocker arms and the spark plugs. Now, rotate the engine until # 1 and 4 are on top dead center (TDC). Put shop air pressure into the combustion chamber with a device designed for this. While shop air pressure holds the valves closed, remove the keepers and spring with seats. Replace the seals on #'s 1 and 4. And put everything back.
Next, rotate the engine until # 2 and 3 are on TDC, and repeat the process for these.
Button things up and be careful with your torque. Valve adjustment may be required, so you should inspect lash.

RickMN · Jan 28, 2009, 07:07 PM

Captain Rich missed one step. You'll need a valve spring compressor to compress the spring so you can pop the keeps off. You'll need the tool to reinstall the keepers as well.

As for sources, you can buy a subscription to Alldata or Eautorepair. But for the most complete instructions, you may want to buy a 3-day ($10) subscription to a Genuine Honda shop manual HONDA

CaptainRich · Jan 30, 2009, 05:28 PM

Yes, some special tools, too. I figured if he was in this far, he was all the way in.
Either way, I haven't seen him back here.