Have you ever wondered what comes after cutting or grinding your valve seats? The answer is valve lapping, a crucial step in the cylinder head assembly process. Lapping has been around as long as engine building itself and is a simple yet effective procedure to ensure a final, flawless fit between the valve and the valve seat.
How does valve lapping work?
All lapping tools operate in a similar manner. The tool is attached to the valve head, lapping compound is applied to either the valve seat or the valve face, and the tool is rotated left and right to gently lap the valve to the seat. Think of it as spinning a stick to create enough heat to start a campfire, except in this case, our goal is not to start a fire but to achieve a perfect fit.
You are viewing: Valve Lapping: Achieving the Perfect Fit
Choosing the Right Lapping Tool
At Goodson, we offer a variety of lapping tools to cater to different preferences and requirements. Here are a few options:
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Traditional Valve Lapping Sticks (VLS-15, VLS-30): These sticks are operated entirely by hand and feature suction cups on one or both ends to attach them to the valve head.
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Extra-Large Hand Valve Lapping Stick (VLS-75): Similar to the traditional sticks, this larger version provides enhanced grip and control.
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Vacuum Style Lapping Sticks (VLV-50): These sticks incorporate a pump to create vacuum, ensuring a secure attachment to the valve head.
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Powered Valve Lapping Tool (VLP-100): This tool is driven by a power drill and converts rotary motion into an oscillating motion for efficient lapping.
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Air Powered Valve Lapping Tool (AVLP-300): The top choice of NHRA Top Fuel teams and other race teams, this heavy-duty unit operates on 90 PSI of shop air, ensuring speedy and effective valve lapping.
The Importance of Lapping Compound
To maximize the effectiveness of valve lapping, it’s crucial to use the correct lapping compound. Goodson offers a range of grits from 120 to 1200, allowing you to choose the one that works best for you. Experimentation may be necessary to find the ideal compound for your specific needs.
When to Lap and When Not to Lap
While valve lapping is essential for achieving a perfect fit, it’s important to note that it is a finishing step, not a solution for correcting poorly ground valves or bad seats. Over time and with experience, you’ll learn which applications require lapping and when it’s unnecessary.
If you have any questions about valve lapping or any other engine building topic, feel free to reach out to the Goodson Tech Services Department at 1-800-533-8010. We’re here to help you achieve optimal performance in your engine.
Source: https://t-tees.com
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