Valve Springs
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 GMC Sierra, 2003 GMC Cab & Chassis Sierra, 2003 Chevrolet Silverado, and 2003 Chevrolet Cab & Chassis Silverado. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Measure valve spring tension using Valve Spring Tester (J-9666). Replace valve spring if valve spring tension is less than 7.09 lbs. (315.5 N) at 1.6142" (41 mm). Measure valve spring for squareness. Replace valve spring if squareness is beyond 0.0787" (2.0 mm). Measure valve spring free length. The production free length is 2.2283" (56.6 mm). Measure valve spring installed height between spring seat (or top of shim, if shimmed) and top of spring shield. Replace valve spring if pressure or installed height is not within specification. See VALVES & VALVE SPRINGS table under ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS.