Valve - Valve Clearance, Adjust: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Ford Escape. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove the timing belt. For additional information, refer to TIMING BELT .
Remove the camshaft alignment tool.

Fig 1: Removing Camshaft Alignment Tool
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: Measure each valve's clearance at base circle with the lobe pointed away from the tappet, before removing the camshafts. Failure to measure all clearances prior to removing the camshafts will necessitate repeated removal and installation and wasted labor time.

Fig 2: Measuring Valve Clearance

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Use a feeler gauge to measure each valve's clearance and record its location.
Remove the camshafts. For additional information, refer to CAMSHAFTS .

CAUTION: If the camshaft and valve tappets are to be reused, mark the location of the valve tappets to make sure that they are assembled in their original positions.

Fig 3: Removing Valve Tappets From Cylinder Head

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Remove the valve tappets from the cylinder head.

NOTE: A midrange clearance is the most desirable:

Intake: 0.15 mm (0.006 inch)
Exhaust: 0.30 mm (0.012 inch)

NOTE: Select tappets using this formula: tappet thickness = measured clearance plus the base tappet thickness minus most desirable thickness.

Select tappets and mark installation location.