Valve Keepers and Locks

Valve keepers work as part of the complete valvetrain. Related parts include:

• Valve Springs and Retainers
• Valves
• Valve Stem Seals
• Valve Guides
• Rocker Arms and Lifters
• Camshafts

See all the brands we stock on our brands page.

• Engine code: Keepers are listed by engine. Current listings cover the Nissan RB26DETT, VR38DETT and VQ35, Toyota 2JZ and 3S-GTE, Mitsubishi 4G63T (Evo 1-9) and 4B11T, Subaru EJ20/EJ25 (including EJ257B and SOHC versions) and Audi DAZA 2.5T FSI.
• Groove style: Keepers come in single-groove and multi-groove designs. These must match the grooves on your valve stems.
• Retainer match: Keepers and retainers work as a pair. Check that the keepers suit the retainers you are running, especially if you are upgrading your springs and retainers.
• Set size: Sets are sold to suit the number of valves in the engine, such as 32 for a four-cylinder with four valves per cylinder or 48 for a six-cylinder. Check the set size in each listing.

Fitting valve keepers means compressing the valve springs, usually with the cylinder head on the bench and a suitable valve spring compressor. Keepers are commonly replaced at the same time as valve springs, retainers or valves. Make sure every keeper is fully seated in its groove before the engine is turned over. Installation by a professional is recommended.

What is the difference between valve keepers, collets and locks?
They are different names for the same part: the small split pieces that lock the valve spring retainer to the valve stem.

Do I need single-groove or multi-groove keepers?
Use the style that matches the grooves on your valve stems. Each listing names the engine it suits.

Which brands do you stock?
We currently stock valve keepers and locks from GSC Power-Division and Supertech.

Should I replace keepers when fitting new springs and retainers?
Keepers must match your retainers, so it is common to replace them as part of a valve spring and retainer upgrade.