There are several valves that play a critical role in the efficient operation of your vehicle. For example, intake valves allow fuel into each cylinder's combustion chamber. Exhaust valves allow vapors to exit the chambers following the combustion process. When problems form with the valves, your engine may suffer performance issues, including misfires and compression leaks. It's important to have such problems addressed quickly to preserve your engine's performance.
With that in mind, we'll answer the most common questions people ask about their vehicles' valves. The following should give you a better understanding regarding why they're important, the issues that affect them, and the best approach toward resolving problems.
"What Causes Valves To Fail?"
Like all components, valves suffer wear and tear over tens of thousands of miles. If you drive your car far enough, they'll eventually need to be replaced. However, they can fail long before they wear down due to burning or breaking.
Valves perform their jobs under extremely high temperatures. Exhaust valves run exceptionally hot (up to 1,400 degrees Fahrenheit) because they are exposed to the vapors that result from the combustion process. These high temperatures make them especially susceptible to burning.
When the valves burn, the metal become less sturdy launch crp123. It's not uncommon for them to suffer fatigue, causing pieces to break off. When this occurs, a compression leak develops.
"What Happens During A Valve Job?"
This type of repair work involves removing the cylinder head to expose the failing valves and guides. The more thorough repair shops will completely dismantle the cylinder head so the individual components can be cleaned and inspected. If cracks are identified, the entire head is either fixed or replaced (cracks are serious because they allow coolant to seep into the combustion chamber) Launch CReader VIII.
Next, the guides are replaced since they are usually worn past the point of effectiveness. The valves are either refaced if they're still usable, or replaced.
"How Much Does This Type Of Work Cost?"
The repair bill can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. A lot depends on the type of engine in your vehicle and the type of repairs needed. For example, fixing a single valve in a standard 4-cylinder might cost under $400, including the labor. On the other hand, replacing multiple valves, fixing a crack head, and performing related repairs on an import can drive the bill upward.
"What Is A Leakdown Test?"
A leakdown test is used to find compression leaks from your cylinders' combustion chambers. It identifies whether your cylinders are sealing properly and if they're not, measures the percentage leakage. It's worth noting that all engines suffer a degree of compression leakage. Even the best engines leak up to 10 percent of their compression. If a leakdown shows a compression loss of 30 percent or more, have a mechanic check your intake and exhaust valves.
"What Other Problems Can Affect Valves?"
Besides burning, breaking, and suffering normal wear and tear, your engine's valves can also become bent. This can occur for several reasons, but often happens due to a broken timing belt. The belt breaks and sends the cylinder's piston crashing into the valve. If a significant amount of damage results, the valve will need to be replaced. If the damage is minor, it can be refaced and reinstalled.
Engine valves receive far less attention than they deserve. They fill a role without which your vehicle could not operate efficiently. By sealing the combustion chamber, and opening at the precise moment to allow fuel to enter and gases to exit, your intake and exhaust valves perform a critical function. As such, when problems occur, they should be addressed quickly.
Repairing these components can be expensive, and becomes more so with the extent of the damage (i.e. cracks, breaks, etc.). However, neglecting the problem practically ensures it will be more costly to fix down the road.
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