Automobile Engine Valve Lapping Tool, circa 1915

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Artifact Overview

Until the late 1910s, the intake and exhaust valves in a car's engine required periodic maintenance -- once a year was not unusual. The valves needed to be cleaned and reseated with a valve lapping tool to ensure a tight seal. This task could take between a few hours to a full day to complete.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Hand tool

Date Made

circa 1915

Location

at Henry Ford Museum in Driving America

Object ID

2011.164.1

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of David Liepelt.

Material

Bronze (Metal)
Metal
Wood (Plant material)

Dimensions

Height: 14.5 in
Width: 3.5 in
Length: 3.75 in

Automobile Engine Valve Lapping Tool, circa 1915