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 cylinder head cover.
2. Set the No. 1 piston at top dead center (TDC). The TDC marks (A) on the cam chain sprocket should align with the cylinder head surface.
3. Select the correct thickness feeler gauge for the valves you're going to check.
4. Insert the feeler gauge (A) between the adjusting screw and the end of the valve stem and glide 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 180° clockwise (camshaft gears turn 90°).
8. Check and, if necessary, adjust the valve clearance on No. 3 cylinder.
9. Rotate the crankshaft 180° clockwise (camshaft gears turn 90°).
10. Check and, if necessary, adjust the valve clearance on No. 4 cylinder.
11. Rotate the crankshaft 180° clockwise (camshaft gears turn 90°).
12. Check and, if necessary, adjust the valve clearance on No. 2 cylinder.
13. Install the cylinder head cover.