Pelican Parts Forums - Valve Lapping Compound Questions

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Valve Lapping Compound Questions

Nobody around these parts (eastern Vermont) seems to either carry or know much about valve lapping compound.

I did get a small can of Napa (Permatex) grease-based compound - but this can was not labeled for grit size. A counter-person looked this up and told me that it was 150 grit...so I bought it and tried it on one (exhaust) valve - and my sense is that although it seemed to do a good job, I might want something finer...perhaps on the order of 240 grit or even higher.

So I called all over this area, and found that a nearby Autozone has a tube of Permatex, which the guy I spoke with seems to think is "the finer grade," and is water-based. He also said he's used this water-based compound successfully.

I know I can get the two-part (120/240 grit) grease-based Clover compound delivered from the west coast in about a week...but I need to get this done ASAP, plus shipping for the Clover compound costs more than the product!

So two questions: One: Would the water-based "fine" Permatex stuff be ok? Yes, I know that grease might stick better and prevent rust...but what's wrong with simply cleaning up with some engine oil? And Two: Are there other sources for Clover (or other similar) compound, a bit closer to my location? Thanks!

The water-based Permatex stuff sounds like exactly the stuff I've been using to good effect on many motors (including friends - it lasts a while!).

Do it. Stop overanalyzing. ;)

Valve Grinding Compound

This is the good stuff.

Personally, I hated the Permatex water based stuff in the tube...too coarse and too liquidy...it made a mess inside the port too easily. Tried it on one valve and immediately went back to the clover paste. There might be a technique for it, but it's still too coarse for finishing, IMO. The clover paste that comes in the double ended can with coarse on one end and fine on the other is good.

If you can find Clover buy it and use it. I on the other hand live in Alaska, everything I need has to be ordered and the waiting for arrival kills me!;)