Lisle valve spring compressor, junk?

ddart cart said
Okay so the spring tool seems like it will work, now that it’s properly oriented. I’m not understanding the retainers. Even though I’m afraid small, high speed projectiles will fly into the abyss, I gave a few taps with a socket on the retainer. Nothing. Hitting it harder seems like a bad idea, and I definitely can’t hold a hammer socket, and the valve to register any change. I originally thought the retainer won’t go anywhere unless you depress the spring and release the pressure first?
I was mixed up thinking the stem tip sat below the retainers, Rusty, but the stem protrudes. I can’t hit the retainers with a hammer without hitting the stem (I didn’t) unless a socket or something bridges the valve stem tip.

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You need to put something on the valve side to hold the valve in place while smacking the retainer in place. If not the valve stem and retainer will move at the same time. The valve must be stationary. When possible, I have done several removals to replace the oil seals in a older motor, with compress air through the spark plug holes. Just be careful you don't drop the valve into the cylinder. I your case here I would use a rolled up rag and place it at each location on the valve. Note: If the valve is removed, you may have to lap it afterwords. This is the reason I like to use the air method, so nothing is moved.