Classic Alfa Forums

So, I have the first head off and taken to pieces.

First suprise is that there are no oil seals on the exhaust valves! I was suprised with the first one and confirmed with the second.

Could this be right? seems very unlikely.

Secondly the exhaust valves hav a good coating of hard white powder. Not getting this far into in old engine before I assume its 'coke' and needs to come off?

Can anybody confirm this?

Thanks for any advice.

Chris.

The erly engines did indeed only use 4 stem seals, this is "normal"
The grey deposits are carbon/baked on deposits and can be safely removed on a bench grinder with a wire wheel, NIT the grind stone I must add!! You won't harm the stem surface any.
I'm sure from memory that seals can be retro fitted so when you build it back up do fit seals

Interesting you say early heads.

This engine came out of a 1.5 33, so I would not think its early, But, who knows the full history!

The white stuff will come off in the morning.

Regards,

Chris.