Tweet
I've just started with measuring and adjusting the valve clearances on my 79' F and I was curious how you guys determine which thickness is the actual valve clearance. Basically, I inserted the measuring shims one at a time until I get to a thickness that will not fit (I don't try and force it) then I read the last one I was able to insert and figure that is the thickness. Looks like most of my valve thicknesses are less then recommended - which is expected after reading several threads here.
An example of what I found (in mm):
#4 intake valve:
0.127 - inserted with minor resistance
0.152 - slight resistance
0.178 - fits snugly
0.203 - does not fit
The lowest thickness on the tool is .038 and I tried adding the .038 to the .127 (0.165 total) and it fit with fair resistance but the .038 and .152 (0.190 total) did not fit. My opinion is that the actual valve clearance is 0.178.
The Clymers manual says to insert the measuring shims until you feel a slight tug. I was having difficulty figuring which shim had a 'slight tug' hence, the method I described. Do I need to be more accurate in my measurements or is my method good? I realized that turning the engine over until the lobe is opposite the valve is subjective and can be full of error so I might be just overly cautious.
An example of what I found (in mm):
#4 intake valve:
0.127 - inserted with minor resistance
0.152 - slight resistance
0.178 - fits snugly
0.203 - does not fit
The lowest thickness on the tool is .038 and I tried adding the .038 to the .127 (0.165 total) and it fit with fair resistance but the .038 and .152 (0.190 total) did not fit. My opinion is that the actual valve clearance is 0.178.
The Clymers manual says to insert the measuring shims until you feel a slight tug. I was having difficulty figuring which shim had a 'slight tug' hence, the method I described. Do I need to be more accurate in my measurements or is my method good? I realized that turning the engine over until the lobe is opposite the valve is subjective and can be full of error so I might be just overly cautious.