It's not a lot of room to allow sliding on the protective sleeve over the threaded part of the valve stem, but I think I was just too worried about messing up the sleeve. After coating in oil I was alble to "manipulate" the sleave over the valve stem, but I did have to bend/twist/force it on there. There is plenty of room for the seals. In the end I was able to get the #1 cylinder intake and exhaust seal installed. The washer trick worked great and I was able to push the seals into place with only my hands, no prying required. Diesel 911, I like your pipe bushing "tool"... Gives you a little bit more to grip as you push the seals into place.