Ok, so i have read the valve adjustment HowTo and it all makes sense apart from the very end where it reads:
QuoteSlide a thickness gauge between the camshaft and the shim.
There should be a gap between 0.03mm and 0.08. If it is out of specs, replace the shim with a 0.05mm thinner or thicker.
I have adjusted valves on numerous cars (SOHC) many times but the process on the GS500 seems slightly different. What exactly is replaced if the clearence is beyond tolerance, on a car it is just a case of adjusting the rocker arm tappit.
Any help, i would really like to know a little bit more about what i am doing before i wade in and destroy. :laugh:
I am getting "popping" at idle and so i will be checking/replacing:
- spark plugs, leads
- filters (air, oil)
- oil
- valve clearances
- etc...etc...
Thanks in advance,
Richmore
The valve shim is replaced. Shims come in different thinknesses so the tolerance stays between .03 and .08
I know how dum this is... but what exactly is a valve shim?
The impression i get is that it is some sort of spacer, are they adjustable at all or is it simply a case of "if the clearance is to large/small replace the shim"?
and to think my gf let's me loose on the car... :laugh:
Thanks,
Richmore
The shim is a coin-shaped block of metal. It is available in different thicknesses. If the distance between the cam and the shim is out of spec, replace the shim with a thinner or thicker one as needed.
If you have a speedy connection, download this great how-to video (http://www2.newnanutilities.org/~ewhitley1/vids/GS500ValveAdjustment.wmv) made by Kerry.