Intake/Exhaust Valves & Seats: Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Dodge Dakota. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Measure valve stems for wear. If wear exceeds 0.051 mm (0.002 in.), replace the valve.

Measure valve stem guide clearance as follows:

Install Valve Guide Sleeve Tool C-3973 over valve stem and install valve (Fig 1 ). The special sleeve places the valve at the correct height for checking with a dial indicator.

Fig 1: Positioning Valve With Tool C-3973
Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.
Attach dial indicator Tool C-3339 to cylinder head and set it at right angles to valve stem being measured (Fig 2 ).

Fig 2: Measuring Valve Guide Wear
Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.
Move valve to and from the indicator. The total dial indicator reading should not exceed 0.432 mm (0.017 in.). Ream the guides for valves with oversize stems if dial indicator reading is excessive or if the stems are scuffed or scored.