B20 Cylinder head refurb

[arcturus]

So I have the engine out and my mechanic doesn't think it needs re bore, just replace worn rings. I have the head on the bench for valve re grinding etc. I have a question re' replacing the valve seals. First of all removal, what's the best way and how to go about fitting new seals?

[tdz840]

Originally Posted by arcturus

So I have the engine out and my mechanic doesn't think it needs re bore, just replace worn rings. I have the head on the bench for valve re grinding etc. I have a question re' replacing the valve seals. First of all removal, what's the best way and how to go about fitting new seals?

Do you mean the valve stem seals or the valve guides?
If the former then the seals on a B18 head are different to the later B20. The B18 are umbrella type and fitted after assembly. Not sure what they do but Volvo must have had a reason. The B20 may not even have seals, I don't recall as my head came assembled from KG Trimning.
The guides are something different and need an engineering shop unless you have a fly press. The alternative which has served me well is KLines which are fitted by broaching the original fitted guide with a special reamer then installed with a KLine tool. They are good as they allow some additional lubrication.
With simple hand tools and engineering knowledge KLines can be installed at home
Russ

[arcturus]

Seals. The removal was no problem because just after I wrote my question The package with de carb' kit was delivered and I was able to see how the seals looked and fitted. I don't expect too much difficulty in fitting the new ones but would appreciate any tips.

[Derek UK]

Are you considering fitting exhaust valve seat inserts for better wear with unleaded petrol? Now is a good time.

[arcturus]

I would if I could find someone here reliable enough to do the work. The Algarve is not known for it's engineering expertise!

[arcturus]

Originally Posted by Derek UK

Are you considering fitting exhaust valve seat inserts for better wear with unleaded petrol? Now is a good time.

How does it work. Do I have to provide the parts,seats valves etc and roughly how much would it be likely to cost.

[arcturus]

So, head off and valve regrind. I think that the valves have seen better days. Pitting a bit too deep to grind out. Will put it all back together with a view to fitting an exchange head during the winter lay off. It will have to do for the Summer program. Must be better than it was.

[classicswede]

For unleaded you fit bronze liners to the valve guides. Some also choose to fit a hardened valve seat to the exhaust side. The engine builders normaly supply the parts