Tappet Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata, and 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Measure the diameter of each tappet bore.
Standard Diameter
1. 30.000-30.025 mm {1.1811-1.1820 in}
  
  Fig 1: Measuring Tappet Bore Diameter
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Measure the diameter of each tappet.
Standard Diameter
1. 29.959-29.975 mm {1.1795-1.1801 in}
Calculate the clearance between the tappet and the related tappet bore. Replace the tappet or cylinder head as necessary.
Standard Clearance
1. 0.025-0.066 mm {0.00099-0.00259 in}
Maximum Clearance
1. 0.180 mm {0.0071 in}