2.3L ('83-'97) Valve spring question

[Otto57]

I'm currently rebuilding a 1977 2.3 from a pinto to put in my 1988 ranger. I plan to use a roller cam from a 1994 ranger 2.3 and was wondering if I could also use the valve springs from the 1994 2.3 but it looks like they might be taller. Maybe they are just stronger and have a different free height measurement? I'm a bit hesitant to use 43 year old valve springs and can't seem to locate sock ones. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

 

[scotts90ranger]

Yeah, they're hard to find, when I redid the head on mine options were few and far between which pretty much told me they didn't change anything important... I'm pretty sure you're right

 

[Otto57]

Ok thanks. There doesn't seem to be a lot of info available about differences in the springs.

 

[tomw]

Generally, the difference would be noted in the length of the valve stem. A longer stem can use longer springs. If the valve stem(or total valve length, placing them 'head to toe' to see) is the same, you should be able to use the newer springs without hesitation.
The non-roller followers having sliding friction cannot tolerate as high a spring rate as the roller followers, FWIW.
tom

 

[Otto57]

Ok, that makes sense. So I just have to measure the valves. Thank you