Let's Talk Valve Guides

[JackStieben]

So I am currently in the process of swapping in a 92 6 bolt into my 97 GST and I am unsure what kind of valve guides will suit my build. I do not want to spend the money on aftermarket ones if some brand new OEM ones will work just fine. I currently have a bare head ready to be built. Nothing is set in stone, but this is what I was thinking:

• 272/272 cams
• EVO 8 Valves, springs, retainers
• brand new OEM valve seats
• GSC valve stem seals
• OEM rockers

My goals for the car are 400-450whp on an E85/93 oct flexfuel tune. So now I am stuck on what brand is most suitable for my build. I'm willing to spend the extra money on the better product if it means I don't have to rebuild my head in a year because of a cheap mistake. I appreciate any input

- Jack

 

[DSM IN MN]

You're not likely to need new seats. Unless there has been multiple valve jobs done to said head you should have a decent window as far as material goes. With that being said ask your local machine shop. They can likely give you a better idea especially on brand. They likely go through SBI, DNJ, PEP or whatever.

If they have the ability to hone bronze guides and suggest that route get some EPN guides. You could go with Ferrera or Supertech but EPN uses just as good (if not better) companies. If they get their guides from the same place they get their valves (PEP - Precision Engine Parts), then you'll be very satisfied. Just rememeber to have a valve job done at the same time.

When replacing guides it can offset your valves ability to seat correctly. It'll also make a big difference if you decide to get brand new valves. Make sure to bring the valves with to the machine shop so they can be ground. New or used its common practice to grind them anyway.

Look into the oil port mod as well.

Hope this helps.
Happy New Years.

 

[JackStieben]

My seats have begun pitting from rust on them. That is the sole reason behind getting fresh OEM replacements. Unless I can find some 2g seats laying around, if those are the same?

 

[DSM IN MN]

My seats have begun pitting from rust on them. That is the sole reason behind getting fresh OEM replacements. Unless I can find some 2g seats laying around, if those are the same?

It's possible however I don't have any of those specs in front of me to reference. If you can source some from Mitsubishi then go ahead and get those. PEP is another great company. Your machine shop will have a brand they use that they'll recommend.

Your best bet is to just take the head in and let them decide. They might be able to cut the seats past where the pitting is. Just tell them you don't want anything iffy or half-assed; if it needs to be replaced you want it done.