valve lash adjustment

[godzuki]

I have an 1997 suzuki esteem. the engine has mechanical lifters that require manual adjustment. My question is, when will I know when they need an adjustment? The valves have been noisy when its cold and it has really been cold lately. The clacking goes away when the engine warms up to normal engine tempratures. Is there a milage schedule i should stick to or should I only have them adjusted when they are noisy all the time even when the engine warms up? Will i damage anything if i just ignored the noise? Thanks in advance!!!

 

[XS650]

quote:

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Originally posted by godzuki:
I have an 1997 suzuki esteem. the engine has mechanical lifters that require manual adjustment. My question is, when will I know when they need an adjustment?

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Find out what the recommended mileage interval is and stick to it unless adjust them very carefully yourself for a few adjustment cycles and find out they don't need it as often.

Some engines lose clearance as the valve train wears so you con't count on noise telling you they need adjusting.

 

[7TFord]

It's better to have valves set too loose than too tight. It is probably the mileage that dictates the adjustment schedule but if they've never been done and the manufacturer states that adjustment is required, then they'll need it now probably. Noise at cold start is probably not the deciding factor...rather noise when hot. Cold start valve train noise is quite common. It's when everything is hammering at temp that you have a problem. Try some lighter quality oil, maybe that will help. How many miles are we talking here? Things could be starting to wear.

 

[XS650]

quote:

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Originally posted by 7TFord:
... Cold start valve train noise is quite common.

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He has an OHC engine with an aluminum head, clearance most likely increases as the engine warms up because the aluminum head expands more than the steel valvetrain.

 

[eljefino]

Can a spec be found for acceptable lash cold and warm? My 87 Mazda 2.0 spec was to adjust when warm but I just let 'em clatter...