Help! I've been about 6 weeks without my Mini. It's nice out here in northern Wisconsin and time I get this project done. I have 3 cracked exhaust valves and the machine shop doesn't have access to seats. So far I've only found them as a complete set through a Mini dealer for $85. Are there any other options? Thanks!

 

The valve stems you mean ?

http://www.ecstuning.com/Search/SiteSearch/11340029571/

 

I think they look more like just a ring. I'm no expert, though. I did take the head off but that's where I draw the line. There were valve seals in my Fel-Pro gasket kit but the seats are what the machine shop says they need and cannot get.

 

I think you will find many mini engine parts mostly OEM only...simply not many were imported into the US....so minimal aftermarket support...
Occasionally you will find a site that might have "gray market"Parts from the OES, but that bypass mini...but tends to be the higher volume items that diy users use....like a belt tensioner....

 

Just trying to figure out exactly what you are looking for: The valve seals are the items in the ECS post above, and go on the valve stem under the valve spring. The valve seats are indeed steel rings that are pressed into the aluminum of the head on the combustion chamber side that the valve head actually sits against. Seals are easy to get through the mail (ECS has 'em!). Seats are a different story, but a competent automotive machine shop (hard to find these days) should be able to fit something equivalent, and get the head back in working condition.
If the valve seats truly are the problem, and you have limited resources where you are, maybe getting a good used head would be a viable option.

good luck!

 

Try summit racing or other large supply houses. Motor on

 

You can search around our parts catalog and see if you find what you need. If not, and you're able to get a part number, you can give us a call and we can help you over the phone.

-Luccia