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Old 29 Jun 2007, 04:31 am
mjc13
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Posts: n/a
Default Re: How Hard is DIY Valve Adjustment?

jim beam wrote:
> mjc13<REMOVETHIS> wrote:
>
>> 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.

>
>
>
>
> i don't think you should attempt this job at this time. it requires
> experience and some degree of mechanical aptitude. judging by your
> other posts and your reaction to responses, you don't appear to have
> either. in fact, your motivation appears to be more recreational than
> anything else.
>
> if you're serious about learning, sign up for evening classes. otherwise
> leave alone. a fouled up valve adjustment can cost you a lot of money.



I guess that establishes you as a troll. Before I filter you, I'll
again note that I've done valve adjustments - on steel rocker
assemblies, 30 years ago. Caution isn't the same as ineptitude, and
sarcasm isn't the same as wisdom.
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