How do I know if these valve locks are the right size for my valve stems?

It's critical that the valve locks match your valve stem size exactly. If the two halves of the lock fit together with no gap when placed on the stem, they are too large. If they fit loosely and leave a gap between the middle of the lock and the stem's outer surface, they are too small.

What is the purpose of the tang on a valve lock?

The tang's sole purpose is to temporarily locate the valve lock, retainer, and spring relative to the valve stem. The retainer's taper then nests around the lock, creating a 'collet' effect that binds them together securely under spring pressure.

Are these valve locks suitable for high-performance engines with heavy valve springs?

These valve locks are recommended for street applications with lighter valve spring loads. They are not intended for engines with very high spring pressures, which can exceed the strength of the lock's tang and retainer interface.

COMP Cams 7 Degree Valve Locks 604-1 - Street Applications

Name: COMP Cams Valve Lock 3/8in Four Groove
Brand: COMP Cams
Price: 6.95 USD
Availability: InStock

COMP Cams Valve Lock 3/8in Four Groove

$6.95

On Backorder

Order now to reserve yours — we'll ship as soon as stock arrives. Full refund if we're unable to fulfill.

COMP Cams 7 degree, 4 groove valve locks for 3/8in stems. Steel street locks, part# 604-1. Direct fit for many Chrysler and Dodge vehicles.

Key Features

Fits many Chrysler and Dodge vehicles from the 1960s through the 1980s.
Hardened steel construction for durability.
Designed for 3/8 inch valve stems.
Features a 7-degree angle for proper retainer seating.
Four-groove design for secure fitment.
Recommended for street applications with lighter valve spring loads.

⚠️ CA WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and/or birth defects or other reproductive harm. Learn more

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Product Details

COMP Cams is well-known for performance engine parts, and these 7-degree, 4-groove valve locks are a solid choice for stock engine rebuilds. They're designed for a 3/8-inch valve stem size, making them a direct replacement for many Chrysler and Dodge applications from the 1960s through the 1980s, like the Dodge D150 pickup or Chrysler Cordoba. It's really important that your valve locks match your valve stem size precisely. If the two halves of the lock fit together with no gap, they're too big. If they fit loosely on the stem and leave a gap in the middle, they're too small.

These locks are made from hardened steel and are intended for street use with lighter valve spring loads. While the tang on the valve lock might look like it's holding everything together, its real job is just to temporarily position the lock, retainer, and spring. The taper on the retainer actually creates a 'collet' effect that securely holds the lock and retainer in place as spring pressure increases. This design ensures a stable connection, even with moderate spring loads.