FixVault

Valve Clearance Adjustment

  1. Remove the timing chains. For additional information, refer to TIMING DRIVE COMPONENTS .
  2. NOTE: Measure each valve clearance at base circle before removing the camshafts. The shims are not repairable with the camshafts in place. Failure to measure all clearances prior to removing the camshafts will cause unnecessary repetition of the procedure.
    Fig 1: Removing Timing Chains
    G03280651Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  3. Use a feeler gauge to measure each valve clearance and record its location.
  4. Remove the camshafts. For additional information, refer to CAMSHAFT, VALVE SPRINGS AND VALVE SEALS .
  5. Remove the shims.
    Fig 2: Removing Shims
    G03280652Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  6. NOTE: The shims are marked for thickness; example: 2.22 mm = 222 on shim.
    NOTE: The corrected shims allow the following valve clearances.
    • Intake valve clearance: 0.18-0.22 mm (0.00709-0.00866 in)
    • Exhaust valve clearance: 0.33-0.38 mm (0.0128-0.0148 in)
    NOTE: A midrange clearance is the most desirable:
    • Intake: 0.20 mm (0.00787 in)
    • Exhaust: 0.35 mm (0.014 in)
    NOTE: Select shims using this formula: required shim thickness = measured clearance plus the base shim thickness minus most desirable clearance.
  7. Select shims and mark the installation location.
  8. Install new shims.
    Fig 3: Installing New Shims
    G03280653Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  9. Install the camshaft. For additional information, refer to CAMSHAFT, VALVE SPRINGS AND VALVE SEALS .
  10. Measure the new valve clearances.
    Fig 4: Installing Camshaft
    G03280654Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  11. Install the timing chains. For additional information, refer to TIMING DRIVE COMPONENTS .