Lotus Elan and Lotus Elan Plus 2 Forums

I have just stripped my engine for rebuild and it?s in remarkably good condition. The pistons look like new and there are honing marks at the tops of the bores. I don?t know the history of the engine other than its last MOT was in 2003, so I?m guessing it was overhauled shortly before that. The head is in excellent condition as are the valve seats. The question I have is are the valve seats hardened for unleaded fuel?
Anyone know how to tell before I commit to replace them?

Dave

The original valve seats were hard enough for unleaded fuel. If they have been replaced with new seats at anytime in the heads life they are probably as hard or harder. No need to replace valve seats if the are in good condition and the valves are seated at the right height in them and you're not doing a race engine with bigger valves and ports.

cheers
Rohan

+1 to Rohan's post (not that he needs it - sure he's forgotten far more about twincs than I'll ever know!). Result Dave! You'll be in it for at Donny then...
Cheers
Rob
S3 SE FHC
S2 7
22
Elise S1 (everyday driver)

Thanks Rohan. Saved me some cash to spend on other bits.

Not in the +2 this year Rob. I'll be in a beautiful S1 Elise.

Dave

And I won't - either way! I'll PM you
Cheers
Rob