tried poring through the threads, it's getting harder and harder to refind posts i've stumbled across earlier. I apologize if this is repetative.

64 valiant, 225

never messed with engine internals before after all the other projects time for a valve adjustment.

got feeler gauges, ready to go.

where exactly am i measuring for the proper gap? where am i inserting the feeler gauge to determine how much to tighten or loosen?

any other insight would be appreciated.

Feeler gauge goes between the valve stem and rocker arm. Factory spec for stock cams is .010" on the intake and .020" on the exhaust. If you don't mind making a mess you can do it hot and running. Warm up the engine thoroughly and then remove the valve cover. Get your .010" feeler gauge and a 3/8" box end wrench. The box wrenches that are boxed on both ends are nice for this. Start the engine and with it idling you should be able to fit the .010" feeler gauge in between an intake valve stem and rocker when the valve is closed. You should have to apply a little pressure to get the feeler gauge in the gap. If it slips right in and can be moved easily tighten the adjuster on that rocker. If you can't get the gauge in then loosen the adjuster. You're going for a little drag to move the feeler gauge. After you've done all 6 intakes switch to the .020" feeler and do the exhaust. You should get the feel for it pretty quickly. If not check back with us.

When you replace the valve cover make sure it's not deformed around the bolt holes from over tightening. If it is I turn the cover upside down and put the cover rail on a block of wood then put the ball of a ball-peen hammer in the bolt hole and hit the hammer with another hammer to push the metal back up. Use a new gasket and don't over tighten the bolts.

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Joshua

goes easy enough.

for the gap, should i be feeling just a slight tug to get in and out, or should i get the gap so small that i have to almost force it, and any tighter it doesn't go in at all?

finished the first round before dark without having to rush it. already seems like a vast improvement on my shaky motor syndrome. guess i'll double check tomorrow with daylight.

any other things i should be checking for when i have the valve cover off again?

thanks

You may want to read through this post for some techniques and tips on valve adjustment.

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一期一会
Too many people who were born on third base actually believe they've hit a triple.

I adjusted my valves yesterday. It was quite easy. No major tightening needed!

I did have one thought on this though. I lashed it hot and running. As I was sticking the feeler gauge inbetween the rocker and valve I felt like I was using a planishing hammer. How many times can you use the same feeler gauges? The constent pounding on them when lashing while running has to thin them out to some degree.

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Chris'
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