What keeper tool to use?

[fuelcat]

I am replacing my valve stem seals and I wanted to know what is the best tool to get. I see there are clamp style tools and also tools you hit with a hammer. WHat would be the best one to use? I have a gs550l 1981. thanks

[gearhead13]

I picked up a valve spring compressor off of ebay, works good. And I use needle nose and thick grease to hold the keepers in place while I release the compressor.

[7981GS]

Agreed.
Just buy the correct valve spring compressor for motorcycle engines.
They are only $35-$65 and easy to use.
You can even use them on other small engines like lawn mowers and generator engines, etc.
Non of that Micky Mouse PVC and hammer stuff.

Eric