2002 G Caravan Valve Spring

[abcdcass]

I have a 2002 eX 3.8L V6 that started mis-firing and making a weird knocking sound. I ran the DTC and mis fire on # 2. So ok, replaced all the spark plugs and same fault. Replaced all plug wires. And same, running really rough and unstable at idle. Then replaced the fuel filter. Got a little better not really mis-finring but a got the code P1297. Something about air/fuel mix off. The book says MAP sensor not changing. Well after that all I wanted to do is pour gas all over this damm van. But that really wounldn't help. So I went through all the other sensors and the coil pack and every thing and did wire checks to the PCM from all sensors and nothing. Well I then did a search on the code 1297 on this site and something came about a valve spring breaking. Well damm it there it is. Removed the head cover and there it was. I broken spring. Just 700 miles over the 70,000 mile warranty. I got the broken spring off and now the real problem, try finding a valve spring in Jacksonville FL on a sunday. Ok, I will find one hopefully soon. Next how do I install a new one after a find a spring?

[vipergg]

Wow , that is a very rare occurence on these engines . Very strange...

[mcmotors]

I am not sure of the the help you need, but here are a few ideas:
1: You will have to find a Spring compressor, sometimes a local machine shop will rent you one or an automotive tool rental or parts place. You can modify a compression tester so you pressurize the cylinder you are working on. Assuming you have access to an air compresor. Make sure the other valve of the same cylinder you are working on is closed.
2: other way, a little more risky, first make sure the piston for that cylinder is at bottom of cylinder, drop and stuff a small rope thru the spark plug hole, inside that cylinder, put as much as you can in there, then move that piston up by hand only, as to compress the rope between the head and the piston. Now, with a spring compressor, remove the broken spring and install new one.
Let us know how it worked out, don't waste a gallon of gas, not with these prices...