Axial Valve Maintenance Comparison

[sckarpen]

There might be a relevant thread I haven’t found. If so, please point me to it.

Question: How do the various thayer/axial valve brands differ in terms of maintenance demands?

I assume that instrument innovations/infinity axials are relatively low maintenance because of the ball bearings. I also assume that first generation OE Thayer valves are relatively high maintenance because they are the first iteration (and most are 30+ yrs old by now). Where do Edwards Axials and Shires Axials fall on this spectrum?

I assume that they’re all higher maintenance than rotors, but I’m curious if (and how) they differ from one another in terms of maintenance demands.

Thanks!

[Bonearzt]

Really no different than rotors!

Consistent oiling is the key!! And regular maintenance!

Valves, rotor or axial, really need 2 kinds of oil:
A thin, piston oil, like Al Cass or similar for inside the valve body-into the slide receiver.
And
A heavier oil for the bearings. Like what used to was Hetman 12/12,5/13

[Burgerbob]

They're all about the same, just worn valves will have to be taken apart and cleaned more often. Older valves are usually more worn.

[sckarpen]

Thank you! This was helpful.