Valve Clearance Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Mazda 626. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove the cylinder head cover.
Verify that the engine is cold.
Measure the valve clearance.
1. Turn the crankshaft clockwise so that the No.1 piston is at TDC of the compression stroke.
  
  Fig 1: Turning Crankshaft To TDC
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
2. Measure the valve clearance at A in Fig 2 and/or Fig 3.
  - If the valve clearance exceeds the standard, replace the adjustment shim. See VALVE CLEARANCE ADJUSTMENT .
  Standard [Engine Cold]
  
  0.225-0.295 mm {0.0089-0.0116 in}
  
  Fig 2: Measuring Valve Clearance (1 Of 2)
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
  
  Fig 3: Measuring Valve Clearance (2 Of 2)
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
3. Turn the crankshaft 360° clockwise so that the No.4 piston is at TDC of the compression stroke.
4. Measure the valve clearance at B in Fig 2 and/or Fig 3.
  - If the valve clearance exceeds the standard, replace the adjustment shim. See VALVE CLEARANCE ADJUSTMENT .
  Standard [Engine Cold]
  
  0.225-0.295 mm {0.0089-0.0116 in}
Install the cylinder head cover. See CYLINDER HEAD COVER INSTALLATION NOTE .