Valve Clearance Adjustment

NOTE: Adjust the valves only when the cylinder head temperature is less than 100°F (38°C).

Remove the cylinder head cover (see CYLINDER HEAD COVER REMOVAL ).
Set the No. 1 piston at top dead center (TDC). No. 1 piston TDC mark (A) on the camshaft sprocket should align with the cylinder head surface.

Fig 1: Aligning TDC Mark (A) On The Camshaft Sprocket
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Select the correct thickness feeler gauge for the valves you're going to check.
Intake: 0.18-0.22 mm (0.007-0.009 in.)

Exhaust: 0.21-0.25 mm (0.008-0.010 in.)

Adjusting screw location:

Fig 2: Identifying Valve Adustments
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Insert the feeler gauge (A) between the adjusting screw and the end of the valve stem and slide it back and forth; you should feel a slight amount of drag.

Fig 3: Installing Feeler Gauge Between Adjusting Screw And End Of Valve Stem
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
If you feel too much or too little drag, loosen the locknut (A), and turn the adjusting screw (B) until the drag on the feeler gauge is correct.

Fig 4: Tightening Adjusting Screw And Torque Specifications
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Tighten the locknut and recheck the clearance. Repeat the adjustment, if necessary.
Rotate the crankshaft 240° clockwise (camshaft sprocket turn 120°). The second TDC mark (A) should be aligned with the cylinder head surface.

Fig 5: Identifying TDC Mark On Camshaft Sprocket
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Check and, if necessary, adjust the valve clearance on No. 3 cylinder.
Rotate the crankshaft 240° clockwise (camshaft sprocket turn 120°). The third TDC mark should be aligned with the cylinder head surface.
Check and, if necessary, adjust the valve clearance on No. 2 cylinder.
Install the cylinder head cover (see CYLINDER HEAD COVER INSTALLATION ).