Rocker Arm and Shaft Inspection

Remove the rocker arm assembly (see ROCKER ARM ASSEMBLY REMOVAL ), then disassemble the rocker arm assembly (see ROCKER ARM AND SHAFT DISASSEMBLY/REASSEMBLY ).
Measure the diameter of the shaft at the first rocker location.

Fig 1: Measuring Diameter Of Shaft
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Zero the gauge (A) to the shaft diameter.

Fig 2: Identifying Shaft Diameter
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Measure the inside diameter of the rocker arm, and check it for an out-of-round condition.
Rocker Arm-to-Shaft Clearance

Standard (New): 0.025-0.052 mm 0.0010-0.0020 in.)

Service Limit: 0.08 mm (0.003 in.)

Fig 3: Measuring Inside Diameter Of Rocker Arm
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Repeat for all rocker arms and both shafts. If the clearance is beyond the service the limit, replace the rocker shaft and all out of service limit rocker arms. If any VTEC rocker arm needs replacement, replace the rocker arms (primary, mid, and secondary), as a set.
Inspect the rocker arm pistons (A). Push on each piston manually.
If it does not move smoothly, replace the rocker arm as a set.

NOTE: Apply new engine oil to the rocker arm pistons when reassembling.

Fig 4: Inspecting Rocker Arm Pistons
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Install the rocker arm assembly (see ROCKER ARM ASSEMBLY INSTALLATION ).