Dumb Questions

[jvmills]

1) When adjusting tappet clearance, am I measuring the gap between the top of the valve or the retainer for the valve spring?
2) Ed's tune up directions say "Large vise grip pliers (to put on the bolt head at the rotor so engine crank will be able to be moved back and forth) The crank will go "OVER CENTER" if you use wrenches!!!!!!!!" I don't get it. It moves over center unless I hold it there. What am I missing?

[rzgkane]

1) When adjusting tappet clearance, am I measuring the gap between the top of the valve or the retainer for the valve spring?

The top of the valve to the surface of the rocker arm adjuster screw.

[bloodweiser]

you measure from the bottom of the adjuster screw to the tip of the valve in the center of the retainer.

I can't believe anyone advises using vice grips for something like this, a wrench works fine - do your best to hold it in place, ask a buddy to hold it steady or get creative - absolutely doable.

It's not like the valves are closed for only 1 fraction of a degree, a little off won't hurt
just make sure there's no tension when you adjust - you should be able to wiggle the rockers up and down.

[brewsky]

The vice grips go on the rotor, not the adjuster screws.

Remove the plugs and it will be easier to hold on TDC.