Head gasket set

Discuss mechanical problems here.
Forum rules
By using this site, you agree to our rules. Please see: Terms of Use
Post Reply
Nax
Minor Friendly
Posts: 42
Joined: Fri Apr 03, 2026 4:59 pm
Location: UK
MMOC Member: No

Head gasket set

Post by Nax »

Getting a head gasket set from ESM, is there any advantage in getting the spring type valve stem seals?
User avatar
svenedin
Minor Legend
Posts: 4741
Joined: Fri Aug 29, 2014 9:27 am
Location: Surrey
MMOC Member: Yes

Re: Head gasket set

Post by svenedin »

Unfortunately, you can only use the "top hat" type valve stem oil seals if you also have the later valve guides that have a groove to retain the seal.

Stephen
1969 1098cc Convertible “Xavier” which I have owned since 1989.

Stephen
philthehill
Minor Maniac
Posts: 12096
Joined: Thu Jul 19, 2012 12:05 pm
Location: Hampshire
MMOC Member: Yes

Re: Head gasket set

Post by philthehill »

It is relatively easy to replace the original valve guides with the grooved type. The grooved valve guides are available from ESM,
You only need to fit 'top hat' guides/seals to the four inlet valves guides. The so called oil 'O' ring seals on the exhaust valve guides can be discarded as they are totally ineffective and the exhaust valve stem needs all the lubricant it can get when using unleaded fuel.
https://www.morrisminorspares.com/engin ... l-p1238958
Single valve guides/seals are available from Mini Spares
https://www.minispares.com/12g1963-valv ... -cast-iron

Nax
Minor Friendly
Posts: 42
Joined: Fri Apr 03, 2026 4:59 pm
Location: UK
MMOC Member: No

Re: Head gasket set

Post by Nax »

Thanks, I will see what we have when I get the head off it will probably have standard valve guides
So I will use the O rings that come with the decoke set.
Post Reply