Date:         Thu, 28 May 2009 08:38:40 -0400
Reply-To:     Benny boy <huotb@VIDEOTRON.CA>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Benny boy <huotb@VIDEOTRON.CA>
Subject:      Re: AMC valves, Boston Bob

I have installed 24, as of today, no one complain about any problems. I also
inspected a few, none as show sign of valve wear on the keeper side... so
far! Are the valves cheaper? Yes. But for most customers they will hold for
many years to come. It's not worthed to re-use the old head so anything
better is... better.

By the time you have valves problems the head gasket will have failed again.
At that time you can redo the valves.  Average Westy owner do 3000-6000
miles a year, stock head should hold for 40-60k miles. By then head gasket
WILL have failed again.

I have seen some ugly AMC valves. So i agree that they can mean long time
problem. I'm just saying that it's a calculated risk to install a stock one.

Again, by the time you may see valves problems you may need a engine
overhaul if only a top end was done.

I have also install German valves on some.

Not much else to add. Ho, yea, maybe one thing: Get a real engine for your
van :-)

Ben
http://www.benplace.com/
Get a real engine.