The Steamboating Forum

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This is probably a stupid question, but hey, it should be expected from me,,,,,,,,,,,

Should I be leaving the warm up/ Condensate drain valves on the cylinder and valve chest open when I shut down ?

On a separate topic, the two vlaves that I have on the engine become very hard to turn when the engine gets hot. It is to the point I am afraid I may break the lever if I am not careful. Any suggestions ?

jon

Assuming the are taper plug types, lubricate them with water-pump grease if you can find some, or another anti-seize grease, like Copperslip.

Thanks for the tip Mike,

It doesnt appear that Copper Slip Grease is easily available here in the colonies. does anyone have an opinion on a U.S. alternate ?

jon

Jon, there will certainly be a US version. Did you try Google? Almost any anti-seize grease should help. Try an auto shop.

I use some silver anti seize that is intended for spark plugs and manifold bolts and such. Easy to turn the drain cocks now.

I also have had good luck using it for gasket sealer on my engine's cylinder head. Messy stuff though. I wouldn't mind finding something that doesn't instantly migrate to the top of my bald head and other places.

Mike