I'm quite puzzled by this topic.
For what it's worth, I have been using four cycle engines since the mid nineties, in particular OS (Surpass and non-Surpass), HP rotary valve, Webra rotary valve, Morton M-5 Radial (spark ignition), ENYA (both open and enclosed pushrods, and the cams can be set for reverse rotation) and SAITO (both open and enclosed pushrods). The SAITOs are my favorite.
Sizes (for CL use) from the OS FS 20 up to the ENYA 90 and everything in between.
I would estimate well over 3,500 flights and I still own around 25 four cycle engines.
I've made some custom venturis, but I have NEVER made any internal modifications.
In all this time, I have had only one mechanical failure - a broken crank pin on an OS Surpass 40.
I presently have only three planes flying with four cycle engines - the Little Cherokee (SAITO 30), Cardinette (SAITO 30) and my Colibri Triple (three Surpass 26s)
As to my puzzlement, I have NEVER experienced a broke valve spring.
Bob Z.