I am replacing my intake valves and I am having trouble getting the valve spring compressor on the valve springs because of the spark plug tube. How is the tube put in the head? Is is threaded or is it pressed? Or can you reccommend another sort of valve spring compressor that I can find at a local store. thanks

 

I'm not sure what kind of valve spring compressor you're using. Mine is from Sears (Craftsman) and looks like a huge C-clamp. As for the tubes, I'm not sure how they're installed in the Lancers, but on many cars they are simply pressed in with some sealant similar to what is used on freeze plugs (varries by manufacturer, but gives the same overall effect as Lock-tite on threads). You may be able to grab them with a nice-sized pair of Channel Locks or Vice-Grips and work them out, but your best bet is to either look in a Factory Service Manual or ask the Service Department at the dealer.

 

^He's probably using an over-head compressor... I managed to use mine well around the tube on my 16v Civic head, I don't see any more difficulty with the Lancer? I'd recommend using a zip tie in the compressor to ensure it stays on the spring while compressing it!