Running on air

Evening all, got lubricator sorted and now working.
I have been trying to get my engine to run on air, but having problems with leaks.
I think I have a leak around the cylinder block end cover, is it ok to put foliac paste on it or should I use gasket sealant

Thanks Charlie

Ive put a gasket sealant in mine. Mine is still untested.
Mike

Thanks Mike, I was leaning towards gasket sealant.

Charlie

Afternoon all, still having problems with leaks. Solved the leak on the cylinder block, now the whistle is coursing problems. Air is leaking from around the whistle bowl and sound dice. And from around the whistle rod. I have taken apart and reassembled but still leaks. Any ideas?

Charlie

Hi

If you polish the rod up so no roughness the o-ring slides better and allows a better seal.
Are you still running on air or now on steam as valves perform different under steam. My engine Crystal leaks like the preverbal tea strainer but under steam is quite silent even the whistle valve. I did flute the valve rod to a scalloped 3 fluted rod so that it passes more steam for the bigger whistle she has.

Hi Lynn
There is no o ring on the 2" whistle. The rod just goes straight in. There is a spring and a small ss ball that goes in opposite side of the rod.
I have thought that maybe the compressor I am using is the problem. Its only a small one with no tank. I think I'm not getting enough pressure to seal the ball on its seat.
Have spoken to STW and have been told to make sure that the seat is seating the ball properly.
They have said to take whistle apart, put it so seat is vertical and tap the ball once to make sure the seat hasn't got anything stopping the ball from seating properly.
Will try this and think I'll invest in a new compressor with a tank.

Charlie

Hi Charlie

I am one and the same. Lynn@STW and the voice on the phone at STW

Oh right, didn't realise that lol

Charlie

Hi I tried what you suggested but the whistle still leaked. I think the problem is the compressor I have. I'm not going to pay out another £100- 200 to get another one.
Will wait till I have the last kit and bring up to you to steam it with me.

Charlie