ST-160 String Trimmer Reed Valve

[jerlin]

I am new to the forum. I have some questons about the reed valve on an ST-160 String Trimmer. While removing the reed valve assembly from the engine, the reed valve came off the two posts on the bottom side of the carburetor spacer. I put the reed valve back on the two posts and reinstalled the spacer on the engine. During the reinstallation, the reed valve came off the two posts and fell into the crankcase. I did not realize what had happened and cranked the engine a few times. Obviously this ruined the reed valve. I found a replacement and have ordered it. Is there a way to keep the reed valve on the two posts while reinstalling the spacer back on the engine? Also, with the reed valve removed, I noticed a hard varnish like substance on the reed valve seat and surface where the carburetor spacer mates to the crankcase. Should this varnish like substance be cleaned off the surfaces, and if so, how should this be done? Thanks in advance for any assistance.
jerlin 

[rowdy235]

Never worked on an ST-160 before. Could you post up some pictures? Usually on other equipment the reed valve is affixed by way of screws/rivets to the reed block.

Brake cleaner works good for cleaning off varnish, just make sure to test it first as it can damage some plastics.

[jerlin]

Thank you for the reply, rowdy. I tried to attach a couple of photos, but the files are too big. If you will send me your email address I will email the photos. Once you see the photos, I hope you can help me with keeping the reed attached to the spacer. My email is [e-mail]

[rowdy235]

Posting for jerlin

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[undee70ss]

It most likely fell off when you installed it. Use a dap of grease to hold in place