DIY valve job

[tminer]

I have a set of 3K mile heads with a "performance 3 angle valve job" and stock valves.

Is it possible to install new 1.71 and 1.5 Manley valves without additional seat work, other than maybe a little lapping to clean up the 3K mile wear and tear?

Not trying to be cheap, just like doing it myself for the experience and as part of enjoying my hobby.

Thanks,
Tom

 

[The Radius Kid]

Should be no problem.Be careful when you lap,if you haven't done it before.
Watch the pattern of contact on the seats as you do it.
Make sure they're right.
If you haven't got the valves yet,I would get Ferreas.
Much better valves.

 

[Darkside]

I just picked up a neat lapping trick. Mount the valve in a hand drill with some lapping compound, zap it for 1 SECOND in the head, then check seal with marking ink.

 

[STP]

Ferrea does make nice valves, but not for everyone's budget. I run them in my stage car just for peace of mind. Manley severe duty valves will do the trick for a little less money....Just my opinion for what it's worth. Darkside's right, use layout dye to check....You can do it

 

[The Radius Kid]

Originally posted by Darkside
I just picked up a neat lapping trick. Mount the valve in a hand drill with some lapping compound, zap it for 1 SECOND in the head, then check seal with marking ink.

I wouldn't do that.If you manage to get through the lapping compound and go metal to metal,you can score the seat and/or valve face.
Then you've got fun.
Lap for a few seconds [by hand],lift the valve part way out and check for a good,even contact pattern.
You'll see it.
Be careful not to get the compound on the stem or in the guide.
Have clean rags and some carb cleaner or solvent handy[you'll need it,trust me].
Try to keep the compound or it's oil off of the face of the valve.
The suction cup for the lapping tool won't grab very well on that oily stuff.
As far as the valves go,they may cost more at the outset,but they're worth it in the long run.
If you have any trouble,post back and let us know.
I'm sure we can help.

 

[tminer]

I did find a book (HPBooks) on engine rebuilding and blueprinting yesterday and it explained how to check with dye and also leak testing with kerosene. I liked that it stated what things were better left to pros, but still explained how to do them anyway! Between that and this board, I may end up with enough info to be dangerous.

Thanks for your support,
Tom

 

[Darkside]

Well,
Get some turbo heads from a front wheel drive 3.8 in a junk yard. gnttype.org has the numbers on how to spot them in a junk yard and believe they are almost identical to our heads. I think the number is 8445? I have a yard here locally that would sell a set to me for about $50. It would be a good way to practice a valve job?

 

[tminer]

Nah, I'll just hand lap them. I can't imagine going clear thru the seats and ruining the heads using some common sense.

Tom