What are valve stem seals and how they work

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What are valve stem seals and how they work
What are valve stem seals and how they work
Anonim

Of course, lubrication is necessary for the normal operation of the engine and its components. Interestingly, oil getting into the combustion chamber itself can lead to a major overhaul of the entire internal combustion engine. But its presence on the walls of the camshaft just contributes to the smooth and uninterrupted operation of the entire car. Therefore, when the valves move, oil is removed from the stem by special protective elements - valve stem seals. We will talk about them today.

valve stem seals
valve stem seals

What are they for?

The main function of this part is to close the valve, which eliminates the possibility of oil penetrating inside. The valve stem seals always fit snugly against the valve surface, but still a few milliliters of lubricant penetrate through them. This is normal as the part should not run dry. But an excessive amount of oil already negatively affects the operation of the valve.

What are valve stem seals made of?

By its design, this part isrubber bushing with rigid steel base. That is, the main component of the valve stem seals is rubber, since the serviceability and service life of the entire mechanism depends on the degree of its wear. The steel base can last forever, so it doesn't matter as much as its second component. As for the rubber itself, there are also some nuances here. If the cap was made of acrylate or recycled rubber, you can be sure that such a part will last a very long time. If the rubber contains other components, their service life can be very short. Therefore, it is better not to purchase such parts.

cost of replacing valve stem seals
cost of replacing valve stem seals

By the way, few people know, but today's valve stem seals are significantly different from their "ancestors". The first mechanisms had only rubber in their composition. Due to the lack of a base, these parts quickly lost elasticity and strength.

When are valve stem seals replaced?

VAZ 2109, like all other domestic cars, has similar symptoms when this part is leaking. The main sign of the loss of rubber properties will be increased oil consumption. You can also observe blue or bluish smoke from the exhaust pipe (but this may also indicate an overhaul of the internal combustion engine). However, if you do not observe such symptoms, do not think that the condition of the caps is ideal. As a rule, manufacturers recommend changing this part every 20 thousand kilometers. Therefore, even if you do not have increased fuel consumption, withreaching this mileage, be sure to replace this mechanism. This work is not so complicated as to seek help from a service center. Everything can be done with your own hands. In addition, the cost of replacing valve stem seals at a service station is 5 thousand rubles.

replacement of valve stem seals VAZ 2109
replacement of valve stem seals VAZ 2109

A final piece of advice. If you do the replacement yourself, be sure, in addition to new caps, purchase a valve cracker puller. It can be found in absolutely any auto shop.

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