Valve Stem to Valve Guide Clearance

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 Mercury Sable, 2009 Ford Taurus X, and 2009 Ford Taurus. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

SPECIAL TOOLS

Illustration	Tool Name	Tool Number
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.	Clearance Gauge, Valve Guide	303-004 (TOOL-6505-E) or equivalent
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.	Dial Indicator Gauge with Holding Fixture	100-002 (TOOL-4201-C) or equivalent

NOTE: Refer to the appropriate Engine article for the specification.

NOTE: The valve stem diameter must be within specifications before checking valve stem-to-valve guide clearance.

NOTE: If necessary, use a magnetic base.

Install a Valve Guide Clearance Gauge on the valve stem and install a Dial Indicator Gauge with Holding Fixture. Lower the valve until the clearance gauge contacts the upper surface of the valve guide.

Fig 1: Identifying Dial Indicator Gauge And Valve Guide Clearance Gauge

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Move the Valve Guide Clearance Gauge toward the Dial Indicator Gauge with Holding Fixture and zero the Dial Indicator Gauge. Move the Valve Guide Clearance Gauge away from the Dial Indicator Gauge with Holding Fixture and note the reading. The reading will be DOUBLE the valve stem-to-valve guide clearance.