Expert: jack bahm - 9/8/2010

Question
Jack, I just got the new stainless mushroom style valves and cast iron split guides for my '31 Model A engine. Am I supposed to hone out the new guides? When I hold the guides together on the valve stem, I cannot move the valve. I "miked" the valve stems --.311" and the I.D. of guide,--.312". The Andrews book gives an I.D. of guide is.3135". How do you hone the split guide? P.S.- I don't have the motor torn down yet.

Answer
Go back  to where you bought them and ask them.  The valve has to be free in the guide.  I will ask around and see what the experts say about this.
jack

OK, I checked with the valve Guru and he says that they should slide when you hold them together with oiled parts.  Be sure you have  alitlle oil on the valve, and if it still hangs up on the guide, send them back and have your source fit them like they should have.  
You may not even need new valves and guides.  The parts in there may just need lapping.  You could also try the old guides with the new guides or the new guides with the old valves.
Sorry I can't be of more help.
Good luck and get back to me if you need anything.  If you are local to the detroit area, we could help more.
jack