S&S Cycle Valve Guides

Valve guides on Harley-Davidson® motorcycles are essential for proper valve operation. S&S Cycle valve guides are designed to provide optimal engine performance by accurately aligning the valves, minimizing friction, dissipating heat generated during combustion, and preventing valve stem wear, ultimately leading to better power delivery, fuel efficiency, and engine longevity. The valve guides are typically made from materials like bronze or cast iron, each with its own wear characteristics and heat transfer properties and help to maintain the integrity of the combustion process by guiding the valves to open and close correctly. Select the S&S Cycle valve guides recommended for your bike's application needs. Features and benefits: * Proper valve alignment—valve guides precisely position the valve stems, allowing them to open and close correctly at the right time, crucial for efficient air intake and exhaust gas expulsion * Reduced friction—the smooth surface of a good valve guide minimizes friction between the valve stem and the guide, reducing wear and heat generation * Heat dissipation—the material of the valve guide is designed to conduct heat away from the valve stem, preventing excessive overheating which can damage the valve * Valve stem protection—by guiding the valve stem accurately, the valve guide prevents the valve from contacting other engine components, reducing potential damage * Improved engine performance—with proper valve operation facilitated by the guides, the engine can achieve optimal power and efficiency * Extended engine life—well-maintained valve guides contribute to a longer engine lifespan by minimizing wear on critical components like the valve stems and valve seats Important considerations regarding valve guides: * Material selection—valve guides are typically made from materials like bronze or cast iron, each with its own wear characteristics and heat transfer properties * Clearance—maintaining the correct clearance between the valve stem and the guide is vital to prevent excessive friction and wear * Regular maintenance—periodic inspections and replacements of valve guides are necessary, especially when experiencing symptoms like decreased engine power, excessive oil consumption, or unusual engine noises Show Less