Valve Clearance: Adjustments

Valve Clearance Adjustment

NOTE: Connect the Honda Diagnostic System (HDS) to the data link connector (DLC), and monitor the engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor 1. Adjust the valve clearance only when the ECT 1 temperature is less than 100 °F (38 °C).

1. Remove the cylinder head cover. Cylinder Head Cover Removal

2. Set the No. 1 piston at top dead center (TDC). The "UP" mark (A) on the camshaft sprocket should be at the top, and the TDC grooves (B) on the camshaft sprocket should line up with the top edge of the chain case.






3. Select the correct feeler gauge for the valves you are going to check.










4. Insert the feeler gauge (A) between the adjusting screw (B) and the end of the valve stem on No. 1 cylinder and slide it back and forth; you should feel a slight amount of drag.






5. 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.

6. Tighten the locknut and recheck the clearance. Repeat the adjustment if necessary.










7. Rotate the crankshaft clockwise. Align the No. 3 piston TDC groove (A) on the camshaft sprocket with the top edge of the chain case.

8. Check the valve clearance on the No. 3 cylinder; adjust it if necessary.






9. Rotate the crankshaft clockwise. Align the No. 4 piston TDC groove (A) on the camshaft sprocket with the top edge of the chain.

10. Check the valve clearance on the No. 4 cylinder; adjust it if necessary.






11. Rotate the crankshaft clockwise. Align the No. 2 piston TDC groove (A) on the camshaft sprocket with the top edge of the head.

12. Check the valve clearance on the No. 2 cylinder; adjust it if necessary.

13. Install the cylinder head cover. Cylinder Head Cover Installation