Steve,
There is nothing wrong with doing the mods if you're so inclined. Peace
of mind is worth a lot.
You are also correct on the theory. The metal removal is caused by micro
welds being constantly made & broken. Lead causes enough joint
contamination to prevent most of the welding. Dirty joints won't weld.
Dave Russell
BJ8Healeys wrote:
The cost
> of the no-lead mods was insignificant compared to the total cost of the
> rebuild, so I was happy to pay it for the peace of mind. I have more than
> 40,000 miles on a non-leaking engine, so I am very happy with his work and
> have just let him do a 1275 Midget engine for me (with no-lead mods).
>
> As I understand the theory, it's the slight but constant transfer of metal
> between the valve and seat as the valve slams into the seat that causes "valve
> recession". The lead additives in gasoline provided some measure of
> cushioning effect between the valve seat and the valve mating surfaces. But
> then, I could be wrong.
>
> Cheers!
> Steve
|