Head Advice Please

[TeamBrian]

Hi Folks, I recently bought a used engine for parts, and to have a play about with (the best way to learn!) and have just removed the heads for a look. 3 out of the 4 exhaust valves are crusty underneath the spring area (for want of a better description), and there's also crusty patches behind the inlet valves. The valves appear to be in good condition with no pitting, as are the seats. The engine was removed due poor running but I've yet to find an obvious cause for its demise...the pistons and barrels appear to be in good condition also. Unfortunately I didn't check the valve clearances before taking the heads off, and I'm wondering if the valves haven't been closing fully....haven't got a clue really! Anyway, here's a couple of pics to show the offending areas, and I'd appreciate any comments on their condition, although I know it's not that easy without seeing them in the flesh. Cheers.

 

[TeamBrian]

Anyone?

 

[dustrat]

As you have stated it is hard to diagnose with out having the head to have a good look at, but from picture of exhaust valve seat ,ie half the seat carboned and other half shiney I would suspect worn valve guides.Looking at top of head were rocker shaft is you have the classic example of exhaust carbon getting past valve and up valve guide. To check this put valve back into head and see if the head moves from side to side when just about seated.If this turns out to be problem it's new guides, exhaust and inlet, and valves. You say the valves seem OK, put them in the bin. They will have most probably done thousands of miles and the last thing you want to happen is rebuild an engine and then have a valve snap.
Robert
:idea: :idea:

 

[Happystamps]

two things-

-ALWAYS replace exhaust valves. Replacing inlet valves isn't a bad idea either, especially in your case.
- New valve guides can be installed at home if that's your bag and you're allowed to put engine parts in the oven/freezer. Last triumph's '57 bug build on VZI details that very well if you're up to searching for it..

 

[TeamBrian]

Yep, I think you're both right. There does appear to be too much play in the guides, so new guides and valves it is. I've had a look on Youtube and there's a couple of vids on there which explain removal and replacement of guides, so I'll give it a crack over winter.