I've searched and I can't find a direct answer. I'm using supertech valve seals. i've been working on assembling my b18a1 head and have stumbled across an issue.
I put all my intake seals on and they went on with a breeze...on the other hand my exhaust seals wont. So I managed to mess a couple up and it's because I'm pressing so hard trying to get them to be flush with the seat. DO the exhaust valve seals need to be flush with the valve seat? When I try tapping them on, it messes up the rubber and deforms the actual valve seal over the top of the valve guide as if the guide is up too high...this is a rebuild on a engine that had 140k on it and DIDN'T burn oil. I babies the car and never raced it.

 

All the seals on my b18c didn't sit flush to the seat, there was a small gap of around 1mm, maybe less. I used a socket + extension and a rubber mallet to install mine with zero damage to the seals. Just a few light taps and you're good to go.

 

Thanks man, I bought the valve seal installer tool although I used a socket at first but I went ahead and installed the new seals and tapped them down as far as the would go.
This is my first rebuild so I was unsure if it was going to be an issue later

 

X2. It's normal to have a small gap. Just a few light taps and you're down. Don't over do it.

Also before installing them. Soak them in a cup of oil.

 

Thanks man! Yeah I did that I just took the top of the oil and poured some oil and then put each one in there individually

 

Would you soak them overnight or just a quick dip just before install?

 

just a quick dip. but,i put on a lot lol

 

And put some oil on valve shaft.

 

And pay attention to the installed height BEFORE you remove them.

 

Yeah I will definitely do that next time. I have three ls heads so if she smokes I'll put another one together with new valve guides.