artec12

Hello,

After discussing in an other thread I created, everyone suggested that I should replace my AP1 retainers with the AP2 ones, and not with supertech because the OEM ones are much more reliable. I've gone ahead and purchased a set of 16 AP2 retainers and keepers. The question is, since I have in my posession a set of supertech dual valve springs (80 lbs) could I install them with AP2 retainers? Has anyone tried this?

Thanks!

Slowcrash_101

The OEM springs are higher rate, and they're lighter too. I'd stick with that.

windhund116

That's what I would say. I never heard of spring failure or floating valves, on this car. At least, not stock.

Mijae007

I dont think that will work. Iirc valvespring retainers come in either single or dual spec with grooves to seat the spring(s) properly. The ap2 retainers should only work with single/beehive springs.

Scigheras

Really? Have you measured this? I thought I read on here the stock springs are around 60-70 lbs. Or maybe there's a difference between AP1 and AP2 springs.

Slowcrash_101

They're way more than that, probably closer to 90lbs. You could stand on the spring and it'll barely budge.

artec12

Seat pressure and spring rate are two different things. The seat pressure on the stock valve springs is about 62 lbs and the supertech ones are 80 lbs.

Slowcrash_101

Ok I'm sure you know best, the OEM valve springs will work up to ~9,300rpm before they start floating. Honda made a really good compromise with the springs, the rate/seat pressure is enough to run at engine speeds that will outflow the head.

Not to mention OEM is proven to last 200k+ miles, again do what you want. If you want to accelerate wear and lose power up top from increased friction, go right ahead chances are you won't notice it on the butt dyno.

The OEM springs have no problem with FI, but who knows maybe you want to run some crazy cams and want a 9,500 rpm redline, and are willing to spend the $6,000 to get there, and are willing to live with lower reliability. Then yeah you'll need "upgraded" springs.

That's all I'll say regarding that.

artec12

No I wouldn't go past 10 psi nor 9000 rpm

RolanTHUNDER

I'm at 10 pounds from my Vortech supercharger on my AP1 that has the AP2 retainers and stock springs. 135k miles all original engine <3
Shift rpm is back at a smidge over 9k at 9050 rpm with retard happening at 9k. I used to run her to 9200 for more boost but after some belt slip I figured just stay at 9 grand.

​​​​​She's happy.

The only thing I've heard is that stock springs don't "like 2 step"? Does Supertech like 2 step??