Restoring a Fuel Shut off Block

[67tank]

Steve and I pulled what I assume was the original fuel shut off block from my current project.  Surprisingly it was in pretty good shape.  Cleaned it up.  On both shut off switches, there was a 2 in piece of string like material curled up around the washer and the gasket.  Not sure what this was made of or was it original/or added later on.....

Any suggestions on how to replace the gasket or seal the shut off valves so it will work as it originally did?? 

[nhs275]

That string might be the seal. It is called valve stem packing. McMaster-Carr sells it:

http://www.mcmaster.com/#valve-stem-packing/=11ud7im

[67tank]

I was steered over to a MV restoration site who is listed in the Supply Line mag from MVPA (i'm sorry I can't remember his name right now).  He has restored a few of this and he advised to pick up Ford Fuel Pump Packing Part number A-8524 from Snyder's Antique Auto Parts. 

Have to cut off the old seal
Cut off a piece of the Pump packing and wrap around/stuff into the nut
Insert the stems and tighten down the nut gently - if you over crank you will be calling BAIV for a new reproduction fuel shot off block. 
When in use - keep the stem open all the way or keep it closed all the way.

So far not leaking at all. 

[8683jb]

Thanks for the information Pat.