Stoney: There is a lot of confusion about finding the right crankshaft position to adjust your valves. Several of the guys have inadvertantly positioned the crank 360 degrees wrong and screwed up their valve adjustments. Here's a fool proof way to NOT screw up the crankshaft position:
1. Remove valve cover of the two valves you are checking
2. Remove crankshaft bolt cover (10mm Allan Wrench) and insert 17mm socket, short extension, and break-over bar (ratchet will do but a break-over bar is better)
3. Remove spark plugs to ease turning over crankshaft
4. While observing exposed valves, turn crankshaft CCW. As you turn the crank you will see the subject valves push down (open) then come up (close). Note when the valves are fully down (open). The cam follower is on the "toe" of the cam lobe. Now turn the crankshaft approximately 360 degrees (camshaft 180 degrees). The follower is now on the "heel" of the cam lobe and the valve(s) is fully and completely closed.
5. Check/Adjust valve clearance
6. Replace valve cover and go to the next set of valves.
7. Repeat until all 4 sets of valves have been checked/adjusted
With this method you can totally ignore the timing marks on the crankshaft and eliminate any question about whether or not you are on the compression stroke. You don't have to be exact on the 360 degree rotation, just close, the heel of the cam is relatively large. Yes, you will be rotating the crankshaft 4 times but it's a no-brainer.
I use feeler gauges but others have used the so-called Jpaige (sp?)method (1/4 or 1/8th turn). IMHO, feeler gauges are more accurate when properly used but Jpaige method is easier for some. Whatever method you use, take your time, don't drop anything down in the engine and do it with the engine overnight cold.
Good Luck!
Bob
