Engine Building

What causes valve float in a GM Ecotec? Learn how RPM, camshaft acceleration, valve spring pressure, spring rate, valvetrain mass and hydraulic lash-adjuster behavior affect high-RPM valve and rocker control.

Coil bind isn't the only limit on Ecotec valve lift. Learn how retainer-to-seal clearance, valve guide clearance, spring seats and retainers determine the usable lift of a performance Ecotec cylinder...

Understand Ecotec valve spring coil bind, mechanical travel, recommended maximum lift, coil-bind clearance, and why BK Racing advertises a conservative .520" operating limit instead of the system's measured mechanical capability.

Valve spring pressure depends on installed height. Learn how installed height affects Ecotec seat pressure, open pressure, spring travel, coil bind and high-lift camshaft compatibility.

Seat pressure and open pressure measure two different parts of an Ecotec valve spring's operating range. Learn why both matter when comparing springs for camshafts, high RPM, boost, and racing.

Learn how to read GM Ecotec valve spring specifications, including installed height, seat pressure, open pressure, spring rate, coil bind, mechanical travel and the critical difference between mechanical lift and...