Eric wrote:
> "mjc13" wrote:
>
>>Tegger wrote:
>>
>>>"mjc13<REMOVETHIS>" <"mjc13<REMOVETHIS>"@verizon.net> wrote in
>>>news:7uBgi.5806$bj5.2829@trndny07:
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>>motsco_ wrote:
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>>mjc13<REMOVETHIS> wrote:
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>> Once again, this is a 1995 Civic EX 1.6L 125HP sedan. Don't have
>>>>>>the serial number at hand. I've done valve lash adjustments on old
>>>>>>Volvo pushrod engines, but nothing like this. It sounds like the
>>>>>>adjustment mechanism is surprisingly similar, though: set screw and
>>>>>>locknut. So, any tricks? Is this something best left to a seasoned
>>>>>>mechanic? I have the Chilton manual.
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>---------------------------------------
>>>>>
>>>>>For better control / leverage, it's nice if you have a long-handle
>>>>>combination wrench, like the 'pro' series one I picked up. It's even
>>>>>nicer if you have the tool that holds the locknut and has a
>>>>>screwdriver built it. GOOGLE 'powerbuilt 648828' or similar,
>>>>>depending on the size of the '95's locknut. I have one but haven't
>>>>>used it yet.
>>>>>
>>>>>'Curly'
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> I was going to use a torque wrench. That isn't critical?
>>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>It *most certainly* is.
>>>
>>>I do my valves every year. I use no special tools, just a flat-blade
>>>screwdriver, a 12mm wrench and a feeler gauge set.
>>>
>>>The critical thing to do is to make certain the cam lobes you check are
>>>pointing stright up to the sky. This ensures their ramps are nowhere
>>>near the rocker mechanism, so cannot affect readings.
>>>
>>>Turn engine COUNTER-clockwise with your ratchet. If you have need to go
>>>the other way, do that only for fine-tuning of cam position. Never turn
>>>clockwise more than a degree or two.
>>>
>>
>> I assume you mean a torque wrench with 12mm socket. ;-) I was hoping
>>to turn the engine by rolling the car in gear. Any problem with that
>>approach? I don't remember if the manual gives the bolt size - is 12mm
>>applicable to my '95 EX?
>
>
> There is no need for a torque wrench. In addition, you may want to take a
> look at one of my prior posts where I discuss the general technique for
> adjusting valves. http://tinyurl.com/2bf5qf
>
> Eric


There may not be a need for a torque wrench if you either have done
the job before or instinctively know what 14 lb/ft feels like, but I'd
prefer not to risk those aluminum rocker arms.