Gauge water valve

[Thomas ClarkeParticipant @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

[Thomas ClarkeParticipant @thomasclarke78224]

[duncan webster 1Participant @duncanwebster1]

Graphited string is the traditional material. It works so why change it

[bernard towersParticipant @bernardtowers37738]

yes stick with the string rubber at elevated temps is not good

[Speedy Builder5Participant @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.

[Chris GunnParticipant @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

[Nigel Graham 2Participant @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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