Lead gasket?

jreed

While trying to rehabilitate some radiator valve handles, I've discovered what seem to be lead washers attached to their undersides. Perhaps "sealing ring" or gasket is a better word. It forms the bearing surface where a large specially-formed nut holds the valve's internal operating parts in valve body. As such I guess it also provides the seal between the pipe and the atmosphere. These are Hoffman No. 7 valves, if that helps.



A couple of them have fallen out in pieces when I removed the nut. It seems like I ought to replace them, but they aren't a common item any more, as far as I can tell. Should I try to make a washer/gasket of my own out of roofing lead? Is there a suitable modern replacement? Any thoughts appreciated.

TomM

hoffman says

somewhat ironic that Hoffman says : "the valve stem stuffing box has a frictionless metallic fibre packing that will last indefinitely and require no attention......."

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http://www.heatinghelp.com/files/articles/1308/89.pdf



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Never seen one of these valves, but surely you can find a metallic gasket that will fit. 

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http://www.mcmaster.com/#standard-gaskets/=9ldof9

jreed

zero maintenance

I've read that someplace. I assumed they were referring to the 'other' gasket/washer, the one that actually presses against the steam opening to shut off the flow. Trust me, they don't last forever either. I've replaced them with whatever I could find that would fit, and that I could get in place without breaking the metal parts. Also probably won't last forever, but better than nothing, I hope.