In a Bind with Coil Bind?

When you look at the specs for our valve spring kits, you’ll see coil bind height specified for every one of them. It is essential when installing valve springs that you know what this number is and take measures to avoid having your valve springs reach this. So, what is coil bind? Read on…

Coil bind is the point at which a valve spring is fully compressed so that there is no space between the coils. You do NOT want your springs to reach this position when in use since it will cause damage to the camshaft and valve train components.

To measure coil bind height, install the retainer in the valve spring and compress the spring until the coils are stacked tightly together. Measure from the bottom of the spring to the bottom of the retainer. This is your coil bind height.

So now that you know what the coil bind height is, what can you do to correct it in your head?

1. Use offset retainers to give the spring a little more room but you MUST check your rocker clearance if you do.
2. Use a longer stem valve with the appropriate length pushrod.
3. Find a spring made of thinner gauge wire with virtually the same specs as the problem spring
4. If you’re not too far off, you can cut the spring pad deeper using a tool such as our 3D-Fast Cut Spring Pad Cutters but you have to be VERY cautious with this so that you don’t irreparably damage your head.

As always, if you have more questions about coil bind or any other cylinder head rebuilding issue, feel free to contact the Goodson Techxperts™ at 1-800-533-8010 or drop us an email.