Replacing Valve Stem Seals

I need to replace the valve stem seals on my wife's 1986 Jetta GLI. While
it sounds like a fairly straightforward job, the cost of the tools has been
the worst part of doing it myself.

I plan on using the "rope in the cylinder" approach to keep the valves from
falling into the cylinder. I have an air compressor and the necessary spark
plug adapter, but the rope method would let me work slowly (overnight if
needed) and not worry about losing pressure if I bump the valve or
something.

I found plans for building my own valve spring compressor, and plan to
build one for this job. It looks like it should work nicely.

I'm still curious about the special pliers used to remove the valve stem
seals. I can't really afford the $50-80 for a pair of "special" pliers. I
found one post online from someone who used regular needle nose pliers, but
I'm wondering if anyone else has used standard tools to remove the seals?
Is it that difficult to do?

As for removing and installing the "keepers", is this very difficult to do?

I've read numerous reports that the seals can be "installed" using a deep
socket that fits the seal properly. That's most likely the approach I'll
use.

I figure I'll probably replace the valve cover gasket and camshaft seal
while I've got things apart.

I've done lots of engine work over the years, including pulling engines,
replacing cylinder heads, etc. But, I've never actually replaced the valve
stem seals. As always, I get a bit nervous venturing into unknown projects.


Any tips or advice would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Anthony