How Hard is DIY Valve Adjustment?

Once again, this is a 1995 Civic EX 1.6L 125HP sedan. Don't have the
serial number at hand. I've done valve lash adjustments on old Volvo
pushrod engines, but nothing like this. It sounds like the adjustment
mechanism is surprisingly similar, though: set screw and locknut. So,
any tricks? Is this something best left to a seasoned mechanic? I have
the Chilton manual.

 

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For better control / leverage, it's nice if you have a long-handle
combination wrench, like the 'pro' series one I picked up. It's even
nicer if you have the tool that holds the locknut and has a screwdriver
built it. GOOGLE 'powerbuilt 648828' or similar, depending on the size
of the '95's locknut. I have one but haven't used it yet.

'Curly'

 

I was going to use a torque wrench. That isn't critical?

 

It *most certainly* is.

I do my valves every year. I use no special tools, just a flat-blade
screwdriver, a 12mm wrench and a feeler gauge set.

The critical thing to do is to make certain the cam lobes you check are
pointing stright up to the sky. This ensures their ramps are nowhere
near the rocker mechanism, so cannot affect readings.

Turn engine COUNTER-clockwise with your ratchet. If you have need to go
the other way, do that only for fine-tuning of cam position. Never turn
clockwise more than a degree or two.

 

I assume you mean a torque wrench with 12mm socket. ;-) I was hoping
to turn the engine by rolling the car in gear. Any problem with that
approach? I don't remember if the manual gives the bolt size - is 12mm
applicable to my '95 EX?

 

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Yes, you'll run out of room on your driveway before you get your valves
all adjusted

Once you slip out the spark plugs the engine turns over easily with the
Power Steering nut. (depending on the model)

Engine should be STONE COLD too, at least on the GEn 1 CR-V it's true.

'Curly'

 

There is no need for a torque wrench. In addition, you may want to take a
look at one of my prior posts where I discuss the general technique for
adjusting valves. http://tinyurl.com/2bf5qf

Eric

 

There may not be a need for a torque wrench if you either have done
the job before or instinctively know what 14 lb/ft feels like, but I'd
prefer not to risk those aluminum rocker arms.

 

i don't think you should attempt this job at this time. it requires
experience and some degree of mechanical aptitude. judging by your
other posts and your reaction to responses, you don't appear to have
either. in fact, your motivation appears to be more recreational than
anything else.

if you're serious about learning, sign up for evening classes. otherwise
leave alone. a fouled up valve adjustment can cost you a lot of money.

 

I guess that establishes you as a troll. Before I filter you, I'll
again note that I've done valve adjustments - on steel rocker
assemblies, 30 years ago. Caution isn't the same as ineptitude, and
sarcasm isn't the same as wisdom.

 

You really, really, need a good shop manual. You clearly have no idea
what's involved.
www.helminc.com

Turn the steering wheel all the way to the left. Now get down and peek
inside the wheel well at the splash shield inboard of the wheel. See the
big round rubber plug? Pop that out and you can use a 19mm socket on a long
extension to turn the engine counterclockwise.

The 12mm wrench is for loosening and tightening the locknuts that hold the
valve adjustment. The screwdriver is for the threaded adjusters.

The torque wrench (and 12mm socket) is for making sure the locknuts are
snugged up properly and will not vibrate loose on you.

 

Jim is absolutely right, and he's no troll.

But you are neither cautious nor inept; you are just woefully uninformed.

If you do not know the proper procedure for turning the engine over, and do
not know what tools are required to do the job, then you are risking severe
engine damage.

I suggest getting the Helm manual (NOT a Chilton or Haynes), and reading
some basic auto maintenance texts.
( wwww.helminc.com or eBay)

Actually, I'm scheduled to perform my annual valve check on my DOHC Integra
this weekend. Maybe I'll take some pics.

 

The factory service manual is free online for this Honda.
See http://www.honda.co.uk/car/owner/workshop.html

Based on what you say below, I think you can do this. Just
ask questions here when something seems amiss. Do not
assume.

 

Not true. You misunderstood me.

Ok, that's how I turn the crankshaft. I was hoping there was another
way to accomplish that, but I can do the above - which the Chilton
manual doesn't mention, at least in this context. I'm not a big fan of
using crank pulley bolts to turn engines, that's all.

I understand that perfectly well - the old Volvo motors had a very
similar design at the rocker arms. I also know how to use the feeler guage!

And I understand that as well. I was trying to confirm that 12mm was
the correct size for this particular engine. Hopefully it is, or if it
isn't I'll have the correct size.

No offense, but the Volvo and Camry techs seem to be nicer. ;-)

 

I did look at that manual - thanks again for the link. As for asking
questions... not in this newsgroup, I think. You're the only one who
seems to be reading what I'm actually writing.