Hi Everyone,

I was reading that with some engines it is recommended that it's best to check/adjust the valve clearances once the engine reaches operating tempearture (hot) and that some engines can be checked/adjusted when cold.

2 questions:

1. What is the case for our mighty datos - hot or cold?

2. Why is the temperature a factor in this proccedure i.e why does it matter?

Your thoughts on this would be great!

Cheers

Datopower,
Quote:
Both hot or cold will be OK. The workshop manual might give you valve clearances for both hot and cold.
If you check the manuals you will notice that the clearances are different depending on whether you are checking clearances when hot or cold - this is because things expand when they are heated and the clearances will close up between the valve stem end and the rocker.
If you have never adjusted the valve clearances I suggest you do it cold because it will save you trying to rush it and possibly getting burnt in the process.
If all else fails check your manual, and if you dont have one, get one because they are very helpful when doing basic settings.

Generally speaking, a cold tappet setting is usefull for setting up a newly assembled engine to get it started.
Since your engine will spend the vast majority of it's operating life at normal operating temperature, this is really the best time to confirm that the settings are correct.
The "cold" setting makes an allowance for expansion when hot, but setting them hot gets it right on the money.

I'm trying to remember the old used car mechanic's line,...oh yeah
8 thous hot, 10 thous cold, an eighth an inch is near enough, the cars already sold.

cold setting usually for starting point for reassembly, should have final adjustment when hot
Bob