How is this done ?
is claying the only way ?

 

i think so.

 

The most precise way is to use a dial indicator. You need to replace one of the valve springs with some sort of dummy spring that doesn't have very much pressure. Next install it with the valve, retainer and keepers. Place the dial indicator on top of the cylinder head with the needle resting on top of the retainer. Rotate the engine counterclockwise untill the valve has opened up all the way. The dial indicator will tell you when this point is. Next set the indicator to zero and press down on the dummy spring. This will give the piston to valve clearance. On a VTEC engine you will need to lock up the rocker arms before you do this.

 

Although I whole-heartedly agree with Holeshot, since your asking, you don't have the needed instruments, so give this article a try: C-Speed's Piston Clay Checking article.

 

Nah dude !
i have a **** load of tool and instruments ( from Mechanical Engineering) ! and what i don't have i have instant access to !

i have read the c-speed article already . just wanted to know if there were other methods!

hey holeshot what rate ( spring rate ) should this spring be ?

 

Just get a spring from the hardware store. Just enough pressure to hold the retainer up; maybe about 25 lbs installed. You can be any old spring and cut it to the right length.

 

ok cool
thanks