6 replies to this topic

[ADRay]

at the same time (like the same hour) that I discovered the vacuum leaks in my carb, the engine was making a knocking sound when I hit the gas. Got it all back together and the knock persists. I looked under the valve cover and found there were little pieces of wire that were wound up like springs. I found (3) 1 inch or so sized pieces, and was able to retrieve two of them. The car is running somewhat reasonably despite the noise.

I didn't open up the engine below the head (except to replace tappet cover gaskets and a new fuel pump) when I had it off the road for so long, so I don't recognize what the might be or where they came from.

Does anybody know what this is?I'm already assuming it's something horrible.

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[nicklouse]

Springs from valve caps.

[ADRay]

phew, thanks. upon close inspection, I can see at least one seal is trashed. They are new and only ran for a couple of hours. Is this something that can just happen?

[sledgehammer]

Possibly valve stem seal spring -

 

they don't usually fall off ???
 

At least I've never seen them fall off

Unless it moved up the guide & hit the inside of the spring

Does the motor smoke on start up ?

Edited by sledgehammer, 11 June 2025 - 07:38 AM.

[imack]

Either the seals were not seated properly on the valve guides, or you have inadequate clearance between the top of the valve guide and the underside of the spring retainer. Have you had the guides replaced or fitted a high lift cam?

[ADRay]

little update - at this point I’m 99% sure that they are the gaiters from the valve seals.

A little more research last night and found that my valve assemblies are vintage 1950’s 948 style, and they include a top hat looking piece that newer ones don’t have. Theory is the top hat piece mashed up the seals.

I’m planning on pulling the head tonight for further inspection

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[imack]

If you have that very early style with the top hat then you've installed the wrong type of valve guide seals. You should only be using the o ring type seal.