Installing locks on valvestem, having problem compressing spring

[MyMopar]

I'm trying to reassemble some heads I have. I'm putting in new valve sprigns, valves, retainers, etc...
The machine shop did all the machining and I figured I could do the rest.  Problem I'm having is getting the sprigns to compress so I can put the locks in.
I have one tool thast basically compresses the spring by turning it down.  Problem is the "hooks" like to slip off the spring, so I don't like to use it.
I have another tool that works on the head, it has a ratchet mechanism and one part holds the bottom of the valve and the other part slips over the spring retainer.  When I use this tool, the spring gets compressed crooked and I can only get one lock on.
Anyone know of a better tool or easier way?  I was thinking of rigging something up with the hydralic press I have, but it is getting the locks in that will be the problem.  I can compress the spring, but I have to make something or modify something to use in the press so I have a clear shot of the valve stem so I can put the locks on.
Just though before I go messing around and spending time on this, I would ask if anyone has advice.  Thanks.

[RD]

get one like this:




you can mostly likely get one thru summit, jegs, or a MAC/MATCO tool seller.

[Charger_Fan]

get one like this:

you can mostly likely get one thru summit, jegs, or a MAC/MATCO tool seller.

Sometimes you can rent them too, from "REAL" auto parts stores like NAPA, etc.

[MyMopar]

get one like this:




you can mostly likely get one thru summit, jegs, or a MAC/MATCO tool seller.

I'm uisng a tool similar to that, but it hardly looks as beefy.  Looks like I will have to find a better one.  THe one I have is probably made to work with lighter valve springs as it likes to bend and twist while compressing.

[RD]

they do have the same tool powered by air. so if you have an air compressor, there ya go.  i wouldnt recommend it unless you rebuild heads all the time though.

[John_Kunkel]

http://www.goodson.com/store/template/product_detail.php?IID=2516&SID=4e4b0843e049cca57107cde929dedc88

[MyMopar]

http://www.goodson.com/store/template/product_detail.php?IID=2516&SID=4e4b0843e049cca57107cde929dedc88

That's nice, but it would be cheaper for me to have someone else install the valves at that point.  I don' tplan on opening shop rebuilding heads.  I might need to use some ingenuity depending on what I can/can't find around.

[RD]

see if you can borrow or rent one, they arent that much to rent.