Valve Clearance Check
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 Lincoln MKZ and 2011 Ford Fusion. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Remove the valve covers. For additional information, refer to VALVE COVER - LH and VALVE COVER - RH in this service information.
- Use a feeler gauge to measure the clearance of each valve and record its location. A midrange clearance is the most desirable:
- Intake: 0.15-0.25 mm (0.006-0.01 in)
- Exhaust: 0.360-0.460 mm (0.0142-0.0181 in)
- If any of the valve clearances are out of specification, select new tappets using this formula: tappet thickness = measured clearance + the base tappet thickness - most desirable thickness.
Select the tappets and mark the installation location.
- If required, install the new selected valve tappets in the marked locations. For additional information, refer to VALVE TAPPETS in this service information.
NOTE:
Engine must be at room temperature before measuring. The valve clearance must be measured with the camshaft at base circle. The engine will have to be rotated with the crankshaft pulley bolt to bring each valve to base circle.
NOTE:
The number on the valve tappet reflects the thickness of the valve tappet. For example, a tappet with the number 3.310 has the thickness of 3.31 mm (0.13 in).