I'm way overdue to replace the valve stem seals in my 1986 300E (289k miles). I have all of the tools and parts ready except I do not have an air compressor and would prefer to use the rope method mentioned in several posts. It looks straight-forward, but I'd appreciate any tips or watch-outs. Has anyone out there actually performed the job this way?

Thanks.

Brent Smith
Snellville, GA
1986 MB 300E 289,000 miles
2003 BMW 530i 93,000 miles
2003 Boxster S 43,000 miles