I've started the process of fine tuning my valves. 7k miles on the motor and after knocking loose the adjuster bolt I had about one full turn out of tension on my rockers (self adjusting valve spring?). I had to turn the motor a dozen times to find TDC and was very confused that I didn't have any play when the valves were closed. It's never ran well and has sat for years before I bought it from a family member. After hunting at several auto part stores I have yet to find a good feeler that will fit in the inspection hole for the valves. I bought one from Napa that will work  but it's still on the larger side (0.005") and the tab is almost over an inch long. Still need to find one that's 0.003" What do you all use that fits better? I've seen a few from Motion Pro that are individual feelers but they're five bucks a pop.

I figured the Motion pro feeler was probably the better way to go. Is the valve clearance different for the intake/exaust? Or can I be lazy and shoot for .004" which if I remember right is the midrange for the adjustment. That'd be nice considering that the feeler comes in .004/.005"

ralfyguy wrote on 05/10/11 at 19:00:21:





& th trumpets Blare  ( You know,, like when something Big happens in the Olde' Style movies)

Dunt Duh Duh Duuuuhhhhh!
Thats just clever, right there...

ralfyguy wrote on 05/10/11 at 19:00:21:

Wow that's actually a brilliant approach. I'll have to give that a go. Considering that this will be the fourth time I've attempted to set them, what can I loose? Well... minus the potential for valve damage. I'll still have to double check that they're even because I'm mechanically an@l about that kind of thing.

Well just look at the slot on the adjuster screw like a clock. Lets say the slot points up in the 12/6 O'Clock position when snug on the valve, then a 1/4 turn CCW would put it in the 9/3 O'Clock position. So an 1/8 turn would put it in the middle between that. So i would set itclose to the 11/5 O'Clock position, put the flat screwdriver in the slot to hold position and tighten the nut, making sure the screwdriver doesn't move.

I think the easiest tool is a credit card handed to a mechanic.  

MotoBuddha wrote on 05/11/11 at 09:30:01:

If I could do that I would have just bought a new motorcycle   Besides that takes all the fun out of it.

ralfyguy wrote on 05/12/11 at 10:52:57:

Not technically correct, all my savages have slotted adjuster screws.
Those have a little square on the end  

And as I've said...
I back the 1st one off 90° then measure it with .004 & .005" feeler gages, then do the rest the same way.