valve guide seals

[duffy 911]

There's a lot of experience on this site and I would like to tap some of it. About to assemble my 1971 911T heads. I have the still in package white valve stem seals
from a Reinz gasket set purchased about 40 years ago. Opinions on whether to use them or is there a better seal available? Thanks Pelicans

[john walker's workshop]

I use the white ones. The brown ones are harder to install and can sit cockeyed or be damaged on installation. My 2¢.

[duffy 911]

appreciate your input John, thank you.

[Henry Schmidt]

A couple of quick notes:
Viton vs Teflon
The Viton are a little more sensitive to install if you don't have the proper tool.
Teflon is no issue.
The Viton seal will work better to control the oil to the valve stem.
Here's the stoss up.
Less oil to the guide means shorter life.
The valve stem likes oil.
Now, more oil means more smoke, generally a puff or two at start up.
Most racing engines of old didn't use any seal on the exhaust valve.
For us it's an "old dog new tricks" issue. We have used the Teflon for 40+ years.
A puff of smoke just tells me everything is being lubricated.

[SalParadise]

Originally Posted by Henry Schmidt

A couple of quick notes:
Viton vs Teflon
The Viton are a little more sensitive to install if you don't have the proper tool.
Teflon is no issue.
The Viton seal will work better to control the oil to the valve stem.
Here's the stoss up.
Less oil to the guide means shorter life.
The valve stem likes oil.
Now, more oil means more smoke, generally a puff or two at start up.
Most racing engines of old didn't use any seal on the exhaust valve.
For us it's an "old dog new tricks" issue. We have used the Teflon for 40+ years.
A puff of smoke just tells me everything is being lubricated.

Awesome quote Henry. One for the books.

[Discseven]

Duff... not sure if it's applicable to '71 seals but there are thin collars that fit onto a valve stem's end that protects the seal as it is being installed.