Car valve collet insert tool

Inspired by a commercially available tool for fitting valve collets on valve stems, I've decided to make my own version. The tool does away with the need for spring clamps, etc.

The insert goes into a 15 mm hex socket (I've used the one from the Powerfix 94-piece socket set).


The procedure for installing valve collets is as follows:

- Insert the printed piece into the hex socket. Use an extension on the hex socket.

- Place a rag underneath the valve to be worked on.

- Insert the valve spring and retainer on the valve stem.

- Place the collets loosely in the valve retainer.

- Place the hex socket with the printed piece over the valve stem.

- Use your body weight to lean on the hex socket and push the valve retainer downwards. A block of wood to spread the pressure on your body is highly recommended.

- The valve spring should compress enough that the collets snap into place into the groove on the valve stem. It make take several tries and some experimentatio