valve check (need confirmation)

[munkee]

Is visual inspection good enough to determine whether or not the valves and valve seals are good when pulling a head? Or is compression testing about the only way.

<small>[ March 22, 2003, 10:17 PM: Message edited by: munkee ]</small>

 

[munkee]

Bump. Anyone?

 

[sdpatt]

That is a tough question, but basically, no. There is no way either a visual inspection or compression test can determine the state of the valve guide seals. A compression test can only determine the general status of the sealing of the rings and the valve seats. You cannot isolate the valve seat condition solely on a visual or compression test.

 

[munkee]

If I put brand new valve guides seals in a 210,000 mile motor, is that going to cause problems with the lower end? I have an engine sitting that I could pull the heads off of and swap otherwise.

 

[sdpatt]

No, it will have no effect on the bottom end, but you would be well served by replacing the connecting rod and possibly crankshaft bearings.

 

[munkee]

Oops, I said lower end but I meant rings etc.. I didn't think it would be a problem until a guy at work said something so I thought I would double check. I can't afford to blow this motor. I will probably just change the valve seals for now and then do the connecting rods and crankshaft bearings in june when I'm finished building the house. Thanks for the help.