Checking Valve Guides For Ware

[MiniGT5]

How do I know if the existing valve guides and valves stems in a cylinder head are worn or not

I have a spare head stripped ready for cleaning and re assembly but it suddenly occured to me that I should check the valves for ware in the valve guides / stems. So how do I know if the guides are too worn or if the stems are too worn

There is a little bit of play between the guide & valve stem but is this just what is required for the valve to open and close or is it too much. should the valve be stiffer in the guide

How to you define "a little bit of play" A little bit to me might be a lot and a lot to me might be a little if any to a pro engine buider

Confused.... I am

Cheers N

[paul1275s]

its quite a subjective thing, there should be a slight amount of wobble.. but not too much!

[MiniGT5]

Well I do have a slight ammount of wobble so that must be good.

N

[mccarefree]

Neil, can you wait until next meet? If so, bring the head with you and we'll find out! Cheers, M. :-)

[MiniGT5]

OK Will do.

Hopfully it will be cleaned up enough to examin without getting too dirty

N

[mccarefree]

Sorted. I'll bring my little box of tricks. Bring a few (or all) of the valves too and we'll measure those while we're at it. See you Monday. Cheers, M. :-)