How to Adjust Car Engine Valves

Introduction

Valve adjustment is a critical part of maintaining your car’s engine. When the valves are not properly adjusted, it can lead to a number of problems, including:

• Reduced engine power
• Increased fuel consumption
• Rough idling
• Engine knocking

Knowing how to adjust car engine valves is a valuable skill that can save you money and keep your car running smoothly.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Before you begin, you will need to gather the following tools and materials:

• Feeler gauge
• Wrench
• Screwdriver
• Spark plug wrench
• New valve cover gasket (if necessary)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Once you have gathered the necessary tools and materials, follow these step-by-step instructions to adjust your car’s engine valves:

1. Locate the valve cover. The valve cover is usually located on the top of the engine. It is a metal cover that is held in place by bolts.
2. Remove the valve cover. Once you have located the valve cover, remove the bolts that are holding it in place. Then, carefully lift the valve cover off of the engine.
3. Identify the valves. The valves are located in the cylinder head. They are small, round metal pieces that are held in place by springs.
4. Measure the valve clearance. The valve clearance is the gap between the valve and the rocker arm. To measure the valve clearance, use a feeler gauge. Insert the feeler gauge between the valve and the rocker arm. The feeler gauge should fit snugly between the two pieces.
5. Adjust the valve clearance. If the valve clearance is not within specifications, you will need to adjust it. To adjust the valve clearance, use a wrench to turn the adjusting screw. Turn the screw until the feeler gauge fits snugly between the valve and the rocker arm.
6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 for all of the valves. Once you have adjusted the valve clearance for one valve, repeat steps 4 and 5 for all of the other valves.
7. Reinstall the valve cover. Once you have adjusted all of the valves, reinstall the valve cover. Be sure to replace the valve cover gasket if it is necessary.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter any problems while adjusting your car’s engine valves, consult a qualified mechanic. Some common problems that you may encounter include:

• The valve clearance is too small. If the valve clearance is too small, the valve will not open fully. This can lead to a loss of power and fuel economy.
• The valve clearance is too large. If the valve clearance is too large, the valve will not close fully. This can lead to engine knocking.
• The valve springs are weak. If the valve springs are weak, they will not be able to keep the valves closed. This can lead to engine knocking and other problems.

Conclusion

Valve adjustment is a critical part of maintaining your car’s engine. By following the step-by-step instructions in this article, you can adjust your car’s engine valves yourself. This can save you money and keep your car running smoothly.