How to replace valve stem seals '71 LT-1?
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Intermediate
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 34
Likes: 0
From: Riverside CA
How to replace valve stem seals '71 LT-1?
Was slated to do NASCAR driver intro Corvette parade lap at Fontana this AM but rain delayed and we were canceled! Anyway, on the way home LT-1 missing and running rough. Pulled plugs at home and #1 oil fouled and crusty black formation. I suspect valve seal? Anybody with advice on rlacement type or brand ? (stock 330hp LT-1) heads were done before I bought it 5 years ago. I found a couple of on-line sites about not having to pull head by using compressed air or "rope into cylinder to keep valves from dropping.. Anybody else been through this? Any help would be appreciated!!
Drifting
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 1,873
Likes: 27
From: Sonora CA
I replaced the seals on my L48 a few months back, I used rope in the cylinders. Worked really well. I never really trusted compressed air. When I replaced the seals, I slid (the white part) of a cut-off "sharpie" marker over the stem, used vacuun grease and slid the seal down onto the stem. This prevents the seal from getting damaged by the sharp upper edge of the stem. Seals came from Corvette Central.
BTW, I used Braided cotton rope
BTW, I used Braided cotton rope
Last edited by imariver; Mar 27, 2011 at 05:31 PM.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 5,727
Likes: 39
From: Fremont CA
I agree the rope method works well. You could probably find replacement stock seals for free from a local auto machine shop. They tend to not be used in performance build-ups and go into the spare gasket pile or trash can.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 8,812
Likes: 2,029
From: eastern NC
I have used both methods to change valve seals over the years. Both work well, but I much prefer the use of an air compressor these days, mostly for convenience. I would recommend just before using the spring compressor on the valve spring, tapping the top of the valve stem with a rubber mallet to ensure the keepers release easily when you compress the spring.
I would also recommend using the Fel Pro SS72527 - Valve Stem Seals
JEGS has them for $12.99 for a set of 8 and they come with the O-rings as well. Some like to use both, however I've never had a problem with their umbrella seals alone. They usually come with a thin plastic sleeve that slips over the valve stem to protect the seal as you slide it past the "keeper" groove.
http://www.jegs.com/i/Fel-Pro/375/SS...rentProductId=
Good luck... GUSTO
I would also recommend using the Fel Pro SS72527 - Valve Stem Seals
JEGS has them for $12.99 for a set of 8 and they come with the O-rings as well. Some like to use both, however I've never had a problem with their umbrella seals alone. They usually come with a thin plastic sleeve that slips over the valve stem to protect the seal as you slide it past the "keeper" groove.
http://www.jegs.com/i/Fel-Pro/375/SS...rentProductId=
Good luck... GUSTO
