Gauge water valve

Gauge water valve

This topic has 6 replies, 6 voices, and was last updated 14 May 2026 at 21:23 by Nigel Graham 2.

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14 May 2026 at 11:51 #848132
Thomas Clarke
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@thomasclarke78224
I am in the process of putting my boiler back on the loco having just had it tested at Western Steam. I thought I would give all the boiler fittings a good clean before reattaching them to the boiler. On checking the seal in the valve I was surprised to see that a rubber seal had not been used and instead some sort of fibre was used. Does this need to be replaced with a rubber seal or could I just use ptf tape. I also need to replace the gauge glass but this is 4.5mm and I can only find 4 or 5 mm glass. Replies would much be appreciated.

Thomas
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14 May 2026 at 11:52 #848137
Thomas Clarke
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@thomasclarke78224
14 May 2026 at 14:29 #848156
duncan webster 1
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@duncanwebster1
Graphited string is the traditional material. It works so why change it
14 May 2026 at 15:52 #848161
bernard towers
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@bernardtowers37738
yes stick with the string rubber at elevated temps is not good
14 May 2026 at 16:28 #848166
Speedy Builder5
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@speedybuilder5
Graphited string as Duncan says, if string is too thick, split the strands apart and use them. Buy a chunk and keep as come in handy for next time.
14 May 2026 at 20:50 #848201
Chris Gunn
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@chrisgunn36534
Your water gauge glass could have been 3/16″ o/d. You may find some if you search for that.

You could try a piece of 5mm steel to see if it will fit in the tube nuts, and go from there.

Chris Gunn
14 May 2026 at 21:23 #848208
Nigel Graham 2
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@nigelgraham2
Synthetic rubber O-rings work in these fittings. They are of ‘Neoprene’ or ‘Viton’ but I’m not sure off-hand which is the better here.

Do not use PTFE tape on boiler fittings. It shreds and the slivers can make mischief in clack-valves, injectors and gauge-glasses.
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