proper method for Valve Clearance check?

Golluk

Well-known member
I'm seeing two methods for checking the valves clearance on a GS500. The manual says to align the notches on the end of both cams so they point inwards, then check 3 of the 4 clearances. Then you rotate the engine so the notches face away, and check the final one.

The other method I've seen, which was in a video linked from the gstwins site, has you rotate the engine so the protruding part of the cam lobe faces away from the shim, and check the clearance. Doing this for each one.

It seemed like with one method, the clearance was too much (by about 0.02mm) on one of the valves. But it was fine with the other.
 
I'm seeing two methods for checking the valves clearance on a GS500. The manual says to align the notches on the end of both cams so they point inwards, then check 3 of the 4 clearances. Then you rotate the engine so the notches face away, and check the final one.

The other method I've seen, which was in a video linked from the gstwins site, has you rotate the engine so the protruding part of the cam lobe faces away from the shim, and check the clearance. Doing this for each one.

It seemed like with one method, the clearance was too much (by about 0.02mm) on one of the valves. But it was fine with the other.

0.02mm = 0.000787401575 inches
A standard sheet of copy paper is about 0.004"

The gap you are talking about is less than 1 quarter the thickness of a sheet of paper.
Perhaps you are taking the measurement a little too literally.

Just leave it the 0.02mm too loose - it'll tighten up shortly.
 
Use the method in the manual, it's faster. Both methods have you measuring on the base circle of the cam..I suspect your .02mm measurement is probably just a blunder.
 
Use the method in the manual, it's faster. Both methods have you measuring on the base circle of the cam..I suspect your .02mm measurement is probably just a blunder.
That too...
Using feeler gauges, you can't easily and repeatably measure 0.02mm or less than 1 thousandth of a inch.

Come to think of it...

WHERE ON EARTH did you find a set of feeler gauges that go below 0.001" what's it made of?


EDIT - my bad... the difference was 0.02mm, not the measured value.... my bad.
 
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Are u gonna trust the manual or the internetz?
 
Well, the shim could still be spun easily, so seems there is at least some clearance on the tight ones. My first attempt at a shim tool met with little success, I'll change them later when I'm not working in 30 degree weather.

Actually managed to not make a huge mess with the gasket sealer, but some did get on the bottom side (sealed it to valve cover). I get the feeling its gonna be a small pita to get it off again later. But if it doesn't leak this time I'll be happy. The old gasket looks like it wasn't seated to well, and was cut through in a couple spots.

Manual says 0.03mm to 0.08mm for clearances. My feeler gauges go down to .038mm.

hmm, that made me think of a penis insult. When they measured your dick, they had to use feeler gauges. Or something to that effect.
 
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How come cars don't need valve checks?

Hydraulic lifters are generally used in car engines. As long as they are close (relative term) in adjustment, hydraulic pressure takes care of any slack (lash).
 
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