Downey

Im taking a Auto Tech class. we just learned how to adjust valves and i wanted to do it on my 93 157k CX motor. I have the feeler gauge and all the nessesary tools to do the job. If i need help i have my teacher to help me out. But, is there anything i need to know before i go ahead and do this? And tips, help, guides, or advice. Positive and negative feedback are welcome. Thanks
Graham


[Modified by Downeybear11, 12:03 AM 9/25/2001]

euclidEH3

i did this to my old civ with over 200k on it, it made a big difference. I diddnt realise how noisey my motor was till after i adjusted them (took the chattery valve noise away)
Uhhmm, the only thing i can think to tell you is to adjust them while the motor is cold, and the best way to insure you dont tear the valve cover gasket is to buy a new one beofre you take the valve cover off.. make sure you know where the timing marks are on the lower pulley so you can move the engine accurately through the cycle as you adjust each cylinders valves.. make sure you torque all the valve cover bolts to spec so it doesnt leak..etc.

oh-and just cause i found out the hard way in the first auto tech class i took (the same day i adjusted my valves), BEFORE you do a compression test- make sure you coat the threads of the tester with anti-sieze befrore you screw it into the spark plug holes in the head. Infact, coat your spark plugs with the stuff when you do your next tune-up if you dont allready. (yep-off topic, but its advice i cant help but pass on whenever i can)

RaceBred

Hey, I was jus reading thru the post, and i was wondering what you do when u adjust valves? What kinda gains would that make? And whats the whole theory behind it anyhoo?

spyder

It doesn't exactly get you "gains" per se... it is more about preventative maintenance and returning your valve-train to factory adjustment. Over time, they can get out of adjustment, and they can wear down a little, so you have to set them back to the correct position to keep the motor healthy...