Valve Stem Seals

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Jan 7, 2005 | 08:53 PM

TigerDan

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Joined: May 2004

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From: The hills of No. Calif.

Valve Stem Seals

Today I was looking at the different late model heads I have accumulated recently, and comparing differences. I have a pair of GT40P heads that are going on the 5.0 I'm building. The Fel-Pro gasket set I have has the standard umbrella seals for the exhaust valves, and the Viton seals that install on the top of the guide for the intake valves. The E5AE heads I have, have the umbrella seals on the intake and exhaust, while my E7TE heads have the Viton seals on both sides. Should I get another 8 Viton seals for the exhaust, so that I have them on both sides, or run the seals as they came in the gasket set, or does it really matter either way? I never really have liked the umbrella seals. Anybody have any thoughts on this? -TD

Jan 7, 2005 | 11:05 PM

jwtaylor

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Thats interesting....if the viton (are they also known as teflon?) work then its up to you.

I keep reading that while the umbrella style "leak" a little more oil, they also lubricate the valve stem much better and from what I keep hearing reduce wear more so than the teflon seals that reduce the amount of lubrication....then again....maybe I hear too much. With that in mind, could it be possible thats why the kit you purchased suggests you use the ubrella on the exh side? Who knows?

Jan 7, 2005 | 11:27 PM

85e150

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Get the better seals. The umbrella jobs crack after a while and then you look like mosquito control when you fire it up or let off the throttle at speed.