Valves and Valve Stem Seals - Installation

  1. Lubricate the valve stems with new engine oil which meets specification API SH (or higher) and JASO MA.
  2. Install the valve into the valve guide.
  3. Fit the valve stem seal over the valve stem and, using a suitable tool, press down fully until the seal is correctly seated over the valve guide.
    4. note
    During fitment of the valve stem seal, two distinctly different degrees of resistance will be noted when the seal is correctly fitted. Firstly, press the seal down the valve stem until the lower side of the seal comes into contact with the valve guide. Greater resistance is felt at this contact point and further gentle pressure is then required to locate the seal over the top end of the valve guide. On application of this pressure, the seal can be felt to positively locate over the top face of the valve guide. Once correctly positioned, the seal cannot be pushed down any further.
    caution
    Incorrect fitment of the valve stem oil seals could lead to high oil consumption and blue smoke emissions from the exhaust system. Do not use excessive force in fitting the seal as this may break the seal ring.
  4. Install the valve spring over the valve stem. Ensure the close wound, colour coded ends of the springs are fitted downwards (towards the piston).
  5. Fit the valve spring retainer.
  6. Compress the valve spring ensuring that the spring is compressed squarely to prevent damage to the valve stem and cylinder head.
  7. Fit the valve collets ensuring correct collet location in the spring retainer and valve as the spring compressor is released.
    8. caution
    Always check for correct location of the valve collets during and after assembly. If not fitted correctly, the collets may become dislodged when the engine is running allowing the valves to contact the pistons. Any such valve to piston contact will cause severe engine damage.