Home
Back
Valve Spring Height Formula:
| From: | To: |
Valve spring height is the measured distance between the spring seat and the retainer when the valve is closed. It's a critical measurement for proper valve train geometry and spring pressure in internal combustion engines.
The calculator uses the simple formula:
Where:
Explanation: As the camshaft opens the valve, the spring compresses by the amount of valve lift, reducing the overall spring height.
Details: Correct spring height ensures proper valve seating pressure, prevents valve float at high RPM, and maintains correct valve timing. Incorrect height can lead to poor engine performance, valve damage, or catastrophic engine failure.
Tips: Enter installed height and lift values in inches. Both values must be positive numbers, with installed height greater than lift for a valid calculation.
Q1: Why is valve spring height important?
A: Proper spring height ensures correct spring pressure, which maintains valve control throughout the engine's RPM range and prevents valve train failure.
Q2: How do I measure installed height?
A: Installed height is measured with the valve closed, spring installed, and retainers/locks in place using a specialized spring height micrometer.
Q3: What happens if spring height is too small?
A: Too little height creates excessive spring pressure, increasing wear on cam lobes, lifters, and valve train components while reducing power.
Q4: What happens if spring height is too large?
A: Too much height results in insufficient spring pressure, potentially causing valve float, poor valve sealing, and possible valve-to-piston contact.
Q5: How often should spring height be checked?
A: Spring height should be checked during engine assembly and whenever valve train components are replaced or after high-mileage operation.