Tap Plungers

[pauldridge]

FYI, a company in the US, Baxter Cycles, manufactures these plungers in brass, with o rings.. just $20 US:

https://www.baxtercycle.com/product/push_pull_petcock_plunger_insert/

Photo: https://www.baxtercycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/ALW_PETCOCK_PLUNGER_KIT.jpg

[simon.holyfield]

Thanks Phil, I've not seen that before.

[pauldridge]

I just wasted my money on a set of new plungers with cork seals from another source. One of the corks was so tight I had to use a pair of pliers to actuate. In spite of that, just a month or so later, I am already getting a bit of seepage from the plunger. I just ordered the o-ring set myself, on advice from a noted Ariel engine rebuilder here in the US who had favorable experience, so we'll see how that goes!

[paul.jameson]

When re-furbishing petrol taps it is quite common to find that the tap body has worn quite badly. I have often had to ream the body out so as to make a hole of consistent diameter for the corks to run in. Do bear this in mind when deciding how to re-furbish your tap.

[simon.holyfield]

When re-furbishing petrol taps it is quite common to find that the tap body has worn quite badly. I have often had to ream the body out so as to make a hole of consistent diameter for the corks to run in. Do bear this in mind when deciding how to re-furbish your tap.

Thanks Paul, I have seen that too. I've not attempted to fix it yet but I'll find a suitable reamer before I make any plungers. I've at least two to do.

[simon.holyfield]

Folks,

Does anyone know the history behind these taps? I've had a quick Google and haven't found much.

Prewar, taps appear to be adjustable and have larger (3/4") hex or diamond knurled plungers; at some point post war, the plungers get a lot smaller and the adjustability disappears. I have a lot of non adjustable plungers which have a straight knurled knob of around 1/2".

[alan.moore]

Simon
This page on the VOC website suggests the change was late forties

https://www.voc.uk.com/net/docs/tl/petroltapt28.pdf

Cheers
Alan

[simon.holyfield]

Perfect, thank you Alan!

[charles.bulloch]

Hi, all.

Has anyone tried the Baxtercycles neoprene o rings?

C

[simon.holyfield]

Today I am learning how easy it is to break tiny slot drills...