The valves in your engine sit on a valve seat, and the seal between these two components is extremely critical for keeping the vehicle running smoothly. This seal, over time, can become worn down and pitted, resulting in a loose seal that can emit oil and fluid. This can cause the compression in the engine to decrease, resulting in a rough run and the faster burning of oil and gasoline.
Valve lapping – which is often called valve grinding – is the process of working the valve and valve seat together to grind a new seal. In this process, an abrasive lapping compound is applied to the valve seat and valve face. Then, as the two components are ground together, the lapping compound, which has a sandy texture, will smooth the surfaces of both the valve and valve seat, resulting in a uniform seal.
The process of valve grinding begins by removing the valve from the seat. Lapping compound – which is a putty-like, gritty substance – is applied to the seat or valve face. Then, the valve is rotated back and forth over the valve seat, while light pressure is applied. Once the process is complete, there will be a uniform gray band around the face of the valve, as well as on the valve seat. This is the new seal, and it will be free of pits and scars. Finally, the lapping compound must be removed from the valve face and seat, using a solvent. Leaving lapping compound on the seat and face will result in faster wear and diminish the tightness of the seal.
There are many different ways that the valve is ground. There are hand-held, manual tools, which contain a suction cup and are rotated by hand. Plus, some prefer to clasp the valve stem with a vice grip, and spin the valve against the seat, by rotating the valve stem. These processes are more time intensive. An air valve lapper kit is a mechanical device that uses power to spin the valve, and it provides several advantages over manual resurfacing.
How Air Valve Lapping Kits Work and Create Tight Valve Seals
Valve lapping kits are a must-have item in any automotive garage. These are similar to handheld lapping tools, but are connected to a power supply. Air lapping tools contain a rubber suction cup that attaches to the valve head. Then, power is applied, resulting in the fast spinning of the suction head. This creates more uniform seals between the valve and valve seat. Here are some reasons a valve lapping kit is a good investment:
- A variety of suction heads: Valve lapping kits are equipped with a range of suction heads in different sizes. Thus, the operator can apply the right sized suction head to match the size of the valve, providing a better grip on the valve and more uniform grinding.
- More uniform surfaces: Although grinding the valve and valve seat by hand is possible, it can be very difficult if the seal is badly pitted and worn. A valve grinding tool is better equipped to handle badly worn valve, spinning the valve at a faster rate. This results in increased grinding power, which can create a more uniform seal.
- Stem Choices: Valve lapping kits are often equipped with a variety of stems, which is the piece that connects the suction head to the power supply. This enables the tool to be adjusted to fit into tighter squeezes, where valves may be obscured by engine components.
- Horizontal and Vertical Orientations: Valve lapping tools are available in either horizontal or vertical orientation, enabling operators to choose the device that would work best for them.
Deelat.com is your source for quality, affordable and extremely durable air valve lapper kits. We offer two options: A six-piece vertical kit and a 12-piece vertical kit, each with a range of suction head sizes for broad applications. Start shopping today.
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