Vitesse MK1 cylinder head pushrod tubes

[wealdrise]

Hi,

I have searched the forum for anything to help me with my question, but could not find anything, so I am hoping someone might have some ideas.

I have stripped down my MK1 Vitesse engine ready for machining work priot to rebuilding. There is a lot of gunge and rust etc behind the pushrod tubes.

Can I remove the tubes and get replacements, or use the old ones if I drift them out carefully?

Has anyone attempted this or got any solutions/ideas?

Many thanks

Adam

[Mark Hammond]

Leave 'em alone!  Once disturbed they leak!  

M.

[mazfg]

When I re-did my 1600 Mk1 head, I left them in. Heard stories that they can leak, especially after the head is acid dipped/ cleaned....  It's been back on the engine for over a year now and hasn't shown any signs of leaks...but then it never did.
Are you sure it's just not general gunk from over the years...not necessarily from the push rod tubes?

[Encom]

Mine leak now - and I haven't even touched them :(

[Pete Lewis]

if removed I would refit with something like Loctite 574 or similar sets with exclusion of air .  bullet proof stuff.

these types of product are well used for face to face gasket less joints in the manufacturing industry.

Pete

[Paudman]

Replace them in the head then place a suitable socket down into them to press them into place and improve the seal. A little Loctite or whatever never hurt either.