if i replace my early 39 valve ***emblies with later 49 style do i have to have the valves and the seats cut.motor was rebuilt and i'm replacing the cam and lifters,but not really looking to rip the whole thing apart.just thought i might upgrade while i'm in there.
If it were mine I'd install a few and lap them in to see what the contact is. If the new valves are the same size and profile you may be OK with the seats as is.
No grinding the stems for clearance but you still need to lightly lap the valves in to confirm good seating.
I agree, at least hand lap the valves. You can grind the seats with the engine block in the car, too, no further dis***embly required than to change the valves. Just a PITA to clean up after.