Paul wrote:
> Hi Curly: Yeah, performance synonymous with fuel economy is
> on track. And, you know, "smoothness" in driving for lack of a
> better term. OK, here's a rundown on what's been done recently,
> all values in miles:
>
> 1) New plugs, Bosch Platinum +4 (don't laugh, 'cause they
> work great) at 175,000. These really made a difference.
> 2) New rotors at 175,000, after-market but they work fine.
> 3) Machined drums at 170,000
> 4) New brake pads/shoes/master cylinder at 170,000
> 5) New radiator / timing belt / water pump at 150,000
> 6 New radiator fan timer, engine coolant temp. sensor,
> gauge sender, fan sensor, and thermostat at 150,000.
> 7) New EGR valve/EGR solenoid/PCV valve at 135,000.
> 8) New tires (Michelin HydroEdge) so I don't go hydo-
> planing all over Canada like before with my 4mm
> Harmonys.
>
> So what's left? I'd love a transmission overhaul but can't afford it
> and don't know how to manage it myself. Maybe I'll take one of
> those six-week night classes at the local community college and
> learn how to do this. Seriously, I'd love to. Just don't have the
> time. So that's back to my original questions. Namely, what kind
> of benefit (or lack thereof) might a valve adjustment and/or new
> oxygen sensor have on this particular car? Thanks again. - Paul
>
> On Mon, 29 Nov 2004 19:27:58 -0700, "motsco_ _" <"motsco_
> _"@interbaun.com> wrote:
>
>
>>Paul wrote:
>>
>>>Greetings: I've got a '92 Accord (175,000 mi). Have been trying to
>>>really give it a thorough upgrading without a total overhaul, and just
>>>wondered if either or both of the following two things could possibly
>>>increase engine performance and longevity: (1) valve adjustment
>>>and, (2) a new O2 sensor. Neither of these issues has ever been
>>>addressed over the life of the car. I have anecdotally heard that
>>>a valve adjustment and/or new oxygen sensor could enhance
>>>performance, but would like to hear it from someone out there in
>>>the real world before shelling out real money. Thanks. - Paul
>>>
>>
>>================
>>
>>Do you mean 'performance', or fuel economy. Your wording isn't clear.
>>Valve adjustment should follow the manual's recommendation, (unless
>>there is a known error, like the CRV manual) and the PCV often gets
>>overlooked.
>>
>>Why not list the stuff you _have_ done?
>>
>>'Curly'
>

paul, there's not a massive amount of point in replacing the sensor
unless it's giving you trouble. but hey, it looks like you /want/ to do
it, so go ahead.

regarding valve clearance, i'm not sure about the accord, but the civics
specify 0.17-0.22mm inlet, 0.22-0.27mm exhaust as a range, with 0.20mm
& 0.25mm being typical. i have mine adjusted to the minimum of the
permissible range because it theoretically gives slightly extended valve
opening. the result is /definitely/ rougher idle, but arguably better
performance. i can [just] out-perform all other d15b2 hondas i've
encountered my vintage, but i can't guarantee that's solely attributable
to valve adjustment.