Measuring Valve Stem-to-Guide Clearance - Dial Indicator Method

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 Saturn Vue. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fig 1: Measuring The Guide-To-Stem Clearance

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Slide the valve out of the guide, approximately 10 mm (0.4 in), in order to measure the guide-to-stem clearance with the SA9179NE . See Special Tools . Rock the stem in the direction of the normal thrust.
- If the measurement exceeds the service limit, install a new valve and measure again.
- If the measurement is within the service limit, assemble using existing valve.
- If the measurement with a new valve exceeds the service limit, replace the valve guide.
Compare the measurements to the specifications.
Specification:
- Intake valve stem-to-guide clearance - new: 0.02-0.045 mm (0.0008-0.0018 in)
- Intake valve stem-to-guide clearance - service limit: 0.08 mm (0.003 in)
- Exhaust valve stem-to-guide clearance - new: 0.055-0.08 mm (0.0022-0.0031 in)
- Exhaust valve stem-to-guide clearance - service limit: 0.11 mm (0.004 in)