A valve stem seal, which prevents oil from the camshaft case from penetrating into the combustion chamber, is mounted on its valve guide simply by fitting it on with tension. Yet it endures probably millions or tens of millions of reciprocation movements by the valve. How does a simple tension fit, which is relatively easy to undo even without a tool with your finger pinch, endure such abuse? Does the range of motion of the valve spring/retainer obstruct its way out of its lodging?
asked Dec 29, 2021 at 20:03
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2 Answers
Depends on the design, but most tend to have an interference fit onto a machined surface on the head.
One of the reasons why secondhand ones are likely to fail prematurely and are a false economy.
answered Dec 29, 2021 at 20:20
For me it is a combination of little oil in the valve stem, reducing friction and drag, and the fact the seals sit with little tolerance to pull force (some even have rubber inside) and the protrusion they sit in ain't polished; you can remove them by lifting them sidewise but if you apply an even pull force (as in the case of the valve stem) they won't easily go.
