valve springs install

Hey guys I was wondering if there is any way to install new valve springs without removing the engine or heads? I tried before (a few years back when I got my ZZP 1.9 rockers and they came with 105# springs). I lost grip of the valve stem and dropped it into the engine. I was freaking out and stopped and thought. I removed the front exhaust manifold and lifted the valve back into the head, placed the spring back on the valve stem with the retainer and left it at that.

I think I have a knock in the engine now but I don't know if thats related. Its usually when its close to oil change time and when I first start the car.

You can make or buy an air fitting that screws into the spark plug hole.

Once its in, you roll the engine over by hand until it is at TDC on the compression stroke (both valves are closed). They apply some compressed air to the fitting, and both valves will stay closed.

It helps to immoblize the engine, so the comp air will not roll the engine over.

The alternative is to get a soft cotton rope. Remove the spark plug and roll the engine over until its about half-way up on the compression stoke. Then feed some of the rope in through the spark plug hole and gently roll the engine over a bit by hand. The piston should move up gently and push the rope up against the valves, holding them up.