Imperlal valve leather packing

[Doc]

Howdy: I am sure I am not the first to ask this- just what have the forum group been doing to replace the leather ring on the fuel valves? I have some teflon string but my A&P buddy does not think it will work. Any ideas on o-rings that work or has anyone been able to reproduce a leather ring? My poor hoss saddle is eyeing me very suspiciously. Tanks. Doc

[M Towsley]

Re: Imperlal valve leather packing

Doc,

Use the search function and type in imperial valve or fuel valve. You will get a few ideas that way. If you do the search first you may save yourself time waiting for an answer. Good luck!

[mhorowit]

Re: Imperlal valve leather packing

I have some teflon string but my A&P buddy does not think it will work. Doc

I used the teflon string (maybe 3/32 in diameter?) used in plumbing. works - Mike

[Doc]

Re: Imperlal valve leather packing

Howdy: Thanks for the input - I read the recommendations about packing the valve stem with teflon thread tape and lapping the valve with toothpaste. I spoke with my DDS buddy who owns a a Champ and he gave me a teaspoon of medium grit valve lapping grease - worked great. As to the packing, I procurred a 6" piece of harness leather from a set of thick reins, drilled a hole that matched the old packing, marked off the packing circumference with a sharpie, and sanded down the new packing with the sanding wheel. Made three packings in about 30 minutes, coated them with fuel lube and the valves (all three) appear good to go. Doc

[Mark Julicher]

Re: Imperlal valve leather packing

Doc,
I just got back from Canada and got your message.
Sounds like you solved the packing issue anyway.