Valve adjustment tool

dan79brooklyn · 02-02-2008, 07:57 AM

Does anyone have any experience with either one of these tools:

Seems they would make the process easier...

One is a Schley

Not sure who makes this one, but it seems like it gives you more room:

john walker's workshop · 02-02-2008, 08:00 AM

tried all that stuff eons ago. clumsy basically. you get used to the regular way soon enough.

khamul02 · khamul02's Garage

I haven't used either but I have where some swear by the first one pictured. I just use the ptool and the backside method to check things.

toolman · toolman's Garage

I like to use an offset screwdriver.

Fishcop · Fishcop's Garage

John' right.

shbop · 02-02-2008, 08:16 PM

I've used the one on top. If you're used to it, it's sweet, but way different than a screwdriver and wrench. It's a totally different feel, and probably awkward if you're used to the conventional method. Works best when the motor is on a stand.

efhughes3 · efhughes3's Garage

Why is it I chuckle every time I hear the "infamous" backside method mentioned? I've not tried it, but I don't see the need to. The regular method is pretty straight forward and accurate. I really don't see why people make a big deal of it?

LakeCleElum · 02-02-2008, 08:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by efhughes3

Why is it I chuckle every time I hear the "infamous" backside method mentioned? I've not tried it, but I don't see the need to. The regular method is pretty straight forward and accurate. I really don't see why people make a big deal of it?

Agree 100%. Also, why do some have a problem with figuring out what a "light drag" on the feeler gauge is? Didn't they grow up adjusted valves on their 1952 Chevy or own motorcycles in their life?????

khamul02 · khamul02's Garage

Dude,
I have a phd in Computer science. I didn't know how to change oil before I got this car. My lack of an automotive background makes me a bit unsure of things.
But either way I like things to be precise. You can't just "feel" electronics are working or a program is going to work. Granted thus far my feel has been dead on but I want to know my adjustment is exact and the backside method assures just that.

The next time you have an engine rebuild just tell your machinist to feel if all of his machine work is correct. Who needs measurements with these cars

Rory Mckenna · 02-03-2008, 06:16 AM

I agree with JWW... the basic flathead and wrench are the best way to go... you'll get use to it.

spuggy · 02-03-2008, 01:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by khamul02

My lack of an automotive background makes me a bit unsure of things. But either way I like things to be precise.

Then develop the feel, or you'll never be able to measure anything with a micrometer or a vernier accurately, much less a feeler and/or blocks.

The sliding drag on a feeler gauge is very similar to the drag on a micrometer or a vernier necessary for the correct measurement - and for the same reason. There's no extra clearance, just the gap.

Even tech weenies can do it just fine, it's only practise. I know, 'coz I is one.

I worked in Mech Eng and toolshops for a few years before I went clean fingernails in the 80's - but at one time, I could eyeball a spark plug or contact breaker gap within a thou or two, certainly good enough for side of the road. The fact that one thickness of a cardboard Marlboro box was 0.012" often helped for a quick check, too...

khamul02 · khamul02's Garage

Man, I only have time to master so many things