"nybaseball22@gmail.com" <nybaseball22@gmail.com> wrote in news:5101ccb1-
6163-487f-b8d3-d8bcf536761c@e10g2000...oglegroups.com:

> Thanks Tegger. The original code was P0301. The codes listed at the
> Dealership that did the repair was P0301, P0302, P0303, P0304.
>
> Does this sound correct? It looks like they replaced the gasket head
> cover, but there is no indication the head was replaced, nor did they
> mention that.



According to TSB 03-038, the problem is due to one or more exhaust valves
receding (sinking) into their respective seats. Valve recession is usually
the effect of valve seats that are insufficiently hardened, which is a
quality defect.

If the valves recede, the valve/lifter clearance closes up, which
eventually results in misfires and burnt valves. Evidently the dealer
determined your valves were not burnt, so they simply readjusted them to
account for the recession.

The danger here is that if your valves receded so as to cause the trouble
in the first place, then they may recede more over time, and the problem
may recur. And eventually you'll run out of adjustment in the adjustment
mechanism and need to replace the entire head ($$$!).

The dealer may have done this quickie fix because you're well out of the
official warranty and they don't see any chance of being able to claim any
kind of reimbursement from Honda for a proper repair. And maybe they've had
success simply adjusting the valves in other cars with this problem. Maybe
the valve seats work-harden to the point where recession lessens over time.

If I were you, I'd have the valves checked every year, and ask the tech to
note the initial clearances before he adjusts them. This way you can have a
running record and can note any changes over time. Normal valves don't
change more than a thou or two over many years, so a defective seat will be
very obvious.

--
Tegger

The Unofficial Honda/Acura FAQ
www.tegger.com/hondafaq/