Valve Clearance Adjustment

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

NOTE:

Perform this same procedure for all camshafts requiring valve clearance adjustment.

Turn the crankshaft clockwise so that the cams on the camshaft requiring valve clearance adjustment are positioned straight up.
Remove the camshaft cap bolts if necessary.
Remove only one pair of cap bolts at a time.

Install the cap bolts before removing the next pair.
1. For EX side No.1, 2, 3 cylinder adjustment shim removal
2. For IN side No.1, 2, 3 cylinder adjustment shim removal
3. For EX side No.2, 3, 4 cylinder adjustment shim removal
4. For IN side No.2, 3, 4 cylinder adjustment shim removal
Fig 1: Identifying Cylinder Adjustment Shim
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
NOTE:
- For EX side No.2, 3 cylinder adjustment shim removal, remove bolts either A or C.
- For IN side No.2, 3 cylinder adjustment shim removal, remove bolts either B or D.
Install the SSTs on the camshaft using the camshaft cap bolt holes.
Tightening torque
1. 11.3-14.2 N.m {115-145 kgf.cm, 100-125 in.lbf}
Align the marks on the SSTs (shaft and shaft clamp).

Fig 2: Installing SSTs On Camshaft Using Camshaft Cap Bolt Holes
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Tighten bolts A to secure the SST (shaft).

Fig 3: Tightening Bolts To Securing SST
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Face the SST (body) outside of the cylinder head, and mount it on the SST (shaft) at the point of the adjustment shim to be replaced.

Fig 4: Mounting SST At Point Of Adjustment Shim
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Face the notch of the tappet so that a small screwdriver can be inserted.
Set the SST on the tappet by its notch.

Fig 5: Setting SST On Tappet By Notch
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Tighten bolt B to secure the SST (body).
CAUTION:
- Cylinder head can be damaged when the tappet is pressed down.
Tighten bolt C, and press down the tappet.

Fig 6: Tightening Bolt And Pressing Down Tappet
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Using a fine screwdriver, pry up the adjustment shim through the notch on the tappet.

Fig 7: Prying Up Adjustment Shim Using Screwdriver
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Remove the shim using a magnet.
Select a proper adjustment shim.
New adjustment shim
1. = Removed shim thickness + Measured valve clearance - Standard valve clearance (IN:0.21 mm {0.008 in}, EX:0.31 mm {0.012 in})
Push the selected shim into the tappet.
Loosen bolt C to allow the tappet to move up.
Loosen bolt B and remove the SST (body).
Remove the SSTs and tighten the camshaft cap bolts.
Tightening torque
1. 11.3-14.2 N.m {115-145 kgf.cm, 100-125 in.lbf}
Verify the valve clearance. (See VALVE CLEARANCE INSPECTION .)