[zlathim]

Mustang-

I performed the Leakdown test correctly last night and it is indeed leaking from the exhaust valve/s on cylinder #1. I am going to tackle this thing myself, but I have a few questions:

Can I get the FINE LAPPING compound at NAPA or Autozone? Is there any particular brand you prefer?

It looks like I may be able to rig substitutes for the two SST's listed as needed for shim replacement. Do you recommend that or should I bite the bullet and buy the SSTs? Do you know how much they are?

I am planning on using a spring compressor designed to use while the head is attached to the block. I am wondering about the clearance around the spring and whether I will need to get something different. Is there anything special about the ones you use?

Is it easiest to just remove the exhaust camshaft from the head in order to replace the springs, or is that a no-no for some reason?

It looks like I can simply remove tension from TC and then remove the upper sprocket from the camshaft. Then just keep the chain from falling down with some wire or something. Does this sound about right to you? Sorry to be a PITA, but I want to try to get it done over the weekend and I want to be prepared.

What does the book say for flat rate? I know that I will never meet it, but I'm wondering how long a dealership guy takes to do it.