I'm trying to remove my tappet guides on my 1991 evo, but can't find the 12 point 1/4 inch socket I need . I'm not pulling the cylinders just to get at the bolts .. Does anyone have suggestions ..
Second question. I wont have to remove the tappet guides if I can hold the lifters up while I install my can.. I tried paperclips, but that didn't work.. I'd rather not undo the tappet guides if I can do this .

 

They make a magnet tool that holds up lifters. Might be of value if you are looking to purchase a tool that doesn't require removal of the lifter blocks.

 

The specialty magnets, have some detractors, claiming that the magnet is not strong enough nor deep enough. Some think they work fine... They cost like $16.00

I bought a 12pak of these magnets...

https://partsfinder.onlinemicrofiche...ModelYear=2008

They hold 25 lbs (certainly strong enough) and I just put them on top of the lifter, and then run a rubber band up to one of the rocker cover bolts to hold up the lifters...

The rubber bands age, and need to be replaced from time to time, but I have used the same 4 magnets for 3 cam changes now... never an issue.. and the 12pak costs like $8.00...

Note: there are paper clips at the end of the rubber bands, because those are the same rubber bands I use to hold up the pushrod tubes when setting adjustable pushrods..






Please excuse the blue loctite in the cam plate cover bolt holes... I hadn't chased and cleaned the threads when this pic was taken.. looks very sloppy..

 

I as well have used magnets. Easier than pulling the blocks and then having a potential leak later, unless they’re leaking now. If they are then just go for it. I’ve used 12 point box end wrenches before. Sometimes gotta heat and bend to get an angle kinda like a automotive brake bleeder wrench.

 

Yeah, use a 12 point 1/4" .....

There is no work around for this, just use the right tool.

A google search will find the tool you need in about 2 seconds.