Valve Clearance: Adjustments

Valve Clearance Adjustment

NOTE: Connect the Honda Diagnostic System (HDS) to the data link connector (DLC), and monitor the engine coolant temperature (ETC). Adjust the valve clearance only when the ETC temperature is less than 100 °F (38 °C).

1. Remove the cylinder head cover. Cylinder Head Cover Removal

2. Set the No. 1 piston at top dead center (TDC). The TDC marks (A) on the cam chain sprocket should align with the cylinder head surface.






3. Select the correct feeler gauge for the valves you are going to check.





Adjusting Screw Location:





4. Insert the feeler gauge (A) between the adjusting screw and the end of the valve stem and slide it back and forth; you should feel a slight amount of drag.






5. If you feel too much or too little drag, loosen the locknut (A), and turn the adjusting screw (B) until the drag on the feeler gauge is correct.

6. Tighten the locknut and recheck the clearance.
Repeat the adjustment, if necessary.






7. Rotate the crankshaft 180 ° clockwise (camshaft gears turn 90 °).

8. Check and, if necessary, adjust the valve clearance on the No. 3 cylinder.






9. Rotate the crankshaft 180 ° clockwise (camshaft gears turn 90 °).

10. Check and, if necessary, adjust the valve clearance on the No. 4 cylinder.






11. Rotate the crankshaft 180 ° clockwise (camshaft gears turn 90 °).

12. Check and, if necessary, adjust the valve clearance on the No. 2 cylinder.

13. Install the cylinder head cover. Cylinder Head Cover Installation