Valve Clearance: Adjustments
Valve Clearance AdjustmentNOTE: Adjust the valves only when the cylinder head temperature is less than 100°F (38°C).
1. Remove the ignition coil cover, then remove the four ignition coils.
2. Remove the throttle cable clamps and harness holder from the cylinder head cover.
3. Remove the cylinder head cover.
4. Remove the grommet from the upper cover, and disconnect the TDC sensor connector. Remove the upper cover.
5. Set the No. 1 piston at top dead center (TDC). The "UP" mark (A) on the camshaft pulley should be at the top, and the TDC marks (B) on the pulley should line up with the top edge of the head.
6. Select the correct thickness feeler gauge for the valves you're going to check.
7. Insert the feeler gauge (A) between the adjusting screw (B) and the end of the valve stem and slide it back and forth; you should feel a slight amount of drag.
8. If you feel too much or too little drag, loosen the locknut (A), and turn the adjusting screw (B) until the drag on the feeler gauge is correct.
9. Tighten the locknut and recheck the clearance. Repeat the adjustment if necessary.
10. Rotate the crankshaft 180° counterclockwise (camshaft pulley turns 90°). The "UP" mark (A) on the camshaft pulley should be toward the exhaust side of the head.
11. Check and, if necessary, adjust the valve clearance on No. 3 cylinder.
12. Rotate the crankshaft 180° counterclockwise to bring No. 4 piston to TDC. TDC marks (A) are visible again.
13. Check and, if necessary, adjust the valve clearance on No. 4 cylinder.
14. Rotate the crankshaft 180° counterclockwise to bring No. 2 piston to TDC. The "UP" mark (A) should be on the intake side of the head.
15. Check and, if necessary, adjust the valve clearance on No. 2 cylinder.
16. Install the cylinder head cover.