new valves

[lupo]

When installing new original style valves is it common to have to shorten the new valves?

[WestCoast]

the answer is no, but have the valves faced by your machinest, you will be surprised how much new valves are warped

[oldbike99]

I would have to say that it would not be unusual for the valve to be too long due to the valve seat being sunk into the deck surface from years of use.

[Tom Wesenberg]

Better too long than too short, and I'd expect the new valve to have to be shortened a little. If you are trying to stem it yourself, then rig up a jig to hold the valve stem at 90 degrees to the side of the grinding wheel. Go easy with the grinding while taking measurements for clearance.

[lupo]

Thank you for the fast answers

[Patrick L.]

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If you have access to valve facing machine. The face can be trued and the stem cut, thats what that little micrometer thingy is on the other end.

[glenn in camino]

When adjusting the length of valve stems with a grinder, cool the stem before checking the clearance. Heat from grinding makes the stem longer.

[James Rogers]

I have to cut almost all the valves I install especially after the seat is resurfaced and/or original tappets are used. Common.

[aermotor]

My engine is headed to the machine shop for valves, the seats are original and look pretty good the mushroom valves and split guides are also original. Question is: modern valves and insert seats or back to original? I will not be changing the lifters and plan on the split guides. Thanks, John

[Tom Wesenberg]

I'm keeping my original valves with the mushroom ends. The mushroom ends with the larger diameter should wear less at that point and they have a larger oil cushion area there, so for the same clearance gap, I'd guess they should be a bit quieter.

I would only install seats if you had to repair a crack in that area, or if the original seat is badly recessed. Model A's will run fine on the original seats.

[Russ/40]

Originally Posted by glenn in camino

When adjusting the length of valve stems with a grinder, cool the stem before checking the clearance. Heat from grinding makes the stem longer.

You shouldn't be letting them get that hot.

[aermotor]

Tom, Excellent point, I didn't think about the extra surface area. That and not putting in seats will also save some $. Thanks, that's what I will do. John

[James Rogers]

If you use the original type tappets, the ONLY way to adjust them is to either cut the stem or the seat. I will guarantee you will find that to be true.