Spider 2L valves remachining - possible?

FreeLSD · #1 (**permalink**) 10-05-2008, 01:54 PM

Hello.
The history: 2L twincam engine was burning oil through intake valves (seen clearly, when looking into intakes with carbs removed).
Changing oil caps solved problem only partially.
Head was disassembled, valve stems measured. With factory requirements (found in manual) of 8.97-8.99mm, my measurements shown 8.81-8.92.
May I remachine each valve to minimum shown diameter, then make new guides, according to new size, and then fit STANDARD oil caps?
Thank you in advance.

super1750 · #2 (**permalink**) 10-05-2008, 02:14 PM

Although it is almost certainly possible, it doesn't make a lot of sense to me. Why not just replace the 4 valves (and guides, if they are not within specs) with new ones? I may be wrong, but I can't see machining the valves and having new guides made up being less work or less expensive than buying new ones off the shelf?

regards
Bob

PS: Solex Rules!

FreeLSD · #3 (**permalink**) 10-05-2008, 02:23 PM

It may take a lot of time to order new valves and take it delivered. Not less than two weeks. Remachining existing valves seems faster.

P.S. Solex Rules, until you want to gamble with main jets for a little.

super1750 · #4 (**permalink**) 10-05-2008, 03:14 PM

If that's the best way for you to go then I guess the question is: Will the STANDARD valve seals still work?

After machining the valves they will be a maximum of 0.15 to 0.2 mm smaller in diameter and I am sure that the valve seals (oil caps) will compensate that as they are a tight fit.

Though, the more I think about it, the less I like the idea of machining the valves... but thats just my humble opinion.

regards
Bob

PS: If you need a source for Solex jets, I know of at least 2 in Germany.

**GTV4EVR** · #5 (**permalink**) 10-05-2008, 03:21 PM

Is it worth the risk? Would you have to modify the retainers too? Will it weaken the valve? Where are you located? It seems that most places you should be able you have them shipped over night. Stuff comes from England to Canada in less than 1 week.

super1750 · #6 (**permalink**) 10-05-2008, 03:26 PM

Good point Ken!!

I hadn't even thought about the retainers. I think they would also compensate for the 0.2 mm difference but I, personally, wouldn't risk them coming loose!

Bob

slyalfa · #7 (**permalink**) 10-05-2008, 03:49 PM

how about geting new valves off somthing else and cuting them down. I have thought of trying this with the V8 Ti valves that are on ebay all the time for almost free. cut them down to alfa size.

FreeLSD · #8 (**permalink**) 10-06-2008, 01:06 AM

Thank you for answers, guys!
I'm located in Moscow, Russia. Not much vintage Alfa Romeo cars all around, so due to low demand on engine parts, offer is also weak.
I'm just working on that idea of cutting valves. If there would be too many reasons to quit, I'll suspend. Replacement valves are also being searched as a concurrent task.

Thank you for pointing at retainers problem, Ken. That's important.

TS_turbo · #9 (**permalink**) 10-06-2008, 01:22 PM

old stock twin cam valves are with chrome plated stems(wear resistant) if u grind it u will end in relatively soft stem core, combine this with coarse finish after grinding and retainer problems ... not worth it

look for new ones valves and guides

FreeLSD · #10 (**permalink**) 10-13-2008, 03:20 AM

Is there reliable supplier for valves/guides, capable of shipping to Russia?

AndyW · #11 (**permalink**) 10-13-2008, 12:47 PM

the uk suppiers should be able to help you out. try talking with Richard or Giles at Classicalfa London, Classic Alfa Romeo Parts & Spares Worldwide - Bertone, Spider & More, tel. +44 20 8679 0707
or email info@classicalfa.com

FreeLSD · #12 (**permalink**) 10-13-2008, 01:32 PM

Thank you a lot, Andy! Letter is sent.