Fluid end assembly of a reciprocating pump

A fluid end assembly for use with a reciprocating pump comprising a reciprocating plunger, the fluid end assembly comprising:

• (a) a fluid end body defining:
• a fluid end body plunger bore for receiving the reciprocating plunger;
• a fluid end body suction inlet in fluid communication with the fluid end body plunger bore;
• and a fluid end body discharge outlet in fluid communication with the fluid end body plunger bore, wherein the fluid end body suction inlet is disposed above the fluid end body discharge outlet;
• (b) a suction manifold removably attached to a top surface of the fluid end body over the fluid end body suction inlet;
• and a discharge manifold removably attached to a side surface of the fluid end body over the fluid end body discharge outlet;
• each manifold defining a manifold fluid aperture, and a valve port extending inwardly from an external surface of the manifold;
• (c) a suction valve assembly and a discharge valve assembly, each valve assembly comprising:
• a valve mechanism variable between an open state and a closed state, wherein an open area of a valve aperture permitting fluid communication between the manifold fluid aperture and the plunger bore is greater in the open state than in the closed state;
• and a valve body for retaining the valve mechanism, wherein the valve body is sized and shaped for insertion into and removal from the valve port while the manifold is attached to the fluid end body.