 Valve adjustment check for Dummies
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Joined: May 2006
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Since it's monsoon day here today in NW CT, I intend to pop off the gas tank, and get a few to-do's off my Speedmaster list, like remove the AI, install some 130 jets, and balance and adjust the carbs, and ventilate the air box.
I'm thinking while I'm at 4,000 miles, and have the tank off, I might better check the valve adjustment, seeing as how others have posted their valve adjustments were way out of whack early in the going.
If you don't mind, a few questions to help me condense some info:
I'll be using an SAE feeler gage, as hopefully I can use a go / no-go method for this low mileage.
What are the comparable SAE to metric numbers I should be looking for?
An unfair / vague question - What are my chances of re-using the valve cover gasket?
Thanks
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 Re: Valve adjustment check for Dummies
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 2,968 Likes: 1
Loquacious
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Loquacious
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Forget about using the SAE guage. Go buy a metric feeler guage. The SAE guage won't have the exact blade you need. Also, the CAM gasket is very reusable. Do not apply RTV to it unless you just use a couple of dots to hold in place. It's made to seal without RTV. Go to Dinqua's site for the valve shim calculator. Sears has a nice Metric feeler guage.
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Re: Valve adjustment check for Dummies
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 84
Member
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NAPA auto supply stores have a metric feeler gauge as well (NAPA 2274). I believe it cost me around $10.00
I re-used both my cam cover gasket and the cover sealing washers. Make sure the gasket surfaces are clean and dry before installing the cam cover gasket.
It does take a little patience to re-install the cover. I think it took me 3 to 4 trys before it fell into place. I have 700+ miles since the valve adj. and no leaks.
Jay
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Re: Valve adjustment check for Dummies
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Joined: Jan 2005
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Check Pants
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Check Pants
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Plus you'll need a micrometer to measure the thickness of the existing shims. Most of the time the numbers are worn off. A good torque wrench is also absolutely required.
Do you have the backlash gear pins?
Al
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Re: Valve adjustment check for Dummies
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Joined: Jan 2006
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Adjunct
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Silly question, but I've had people tell me different ways to check the clearances. So thought I'd pole this for your opinions.
When inserting the feeler gauge is the correct measurement for the gap either:
1. when the gauge is inserted freely between the cam & the shim and can be moved back and forth smoothly or-
2. when the next size gauge will not fit, take the last measurement (although it grinds when fitting through the gap).
TBA, Stainless extractors / drag pipes, 65mm over forward controls, Thruxton needles, 904cc, head ported, lowered 1-inch, Console removed, relocated battery box, Australia.
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Re: Valve adjustment check for Dummies
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Joined: May 2006
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Loquacious
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Quote:
Silly question, but I've had people tell me different ways to check the clearances. So thought I'd pole this for your opinions.
When inserting the feeler gauge is the correct measurement for the gap either:
1. when the gauge is inserted freely between the cam & the shim and can be moved back and forth smoothly or-
2. when the next size gauge will not fit, take the last measurement (although it grinds when fitting through the gap).
The blade should fit smoothly, and almost glide in, without being forced in, or feeling like it's getting stuck as you draw it out. Your instincts will tell you when it's right.
Feeler gages aren't ultra precise, but they're good enough when a 4 or 5 thousandth's tolerance is indicated.
FWIW - my 05 Speedmaster with 4,000 miles on it is still well within tolerances, even with an SAE feeler gage. 
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