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 intake manifold. (See INTAKE-AIR SYSTEM REMOVAL/INSTALLATION [KL] .)
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 clearances at A in Fig 2 and Fig 3.
  - If the valve clearance exceeds the standard, replace the adjustment shim.
  Standard [Engine Cold]
  
  IN: 0.245-0.315 mm {0.0097-0.0124 in}
  
  EX: 0.265-0.335 mm {0.0105-0.0131 in}
  
  Fig 2: Measuring Valve Clearances (1 Of 2)
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
  
  Fig 3: Measuring Valve Clearances (2 Of 2)
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
3. Turn the crankshaft approx. 240° clockwise so that the No.3 piston is at TDC of the compression stroke.
4. Measure the valve clearances at B in Fig 2 and Fig 3.
  - If the valve clearance exceeds the standard, replace the adjustment shim.
  Standard [Engine Cold]
  
  IN: 0.245-0.315 mm {0.0097-0.0124 in}
  
  EX: 0.265-0.335 mm {0.0105-0.0131 in}
5. Turn the crankshaft approx. 240° clockwise so that the No.5 piston is at TDC of the compression stroke.
6. Measure the valve clearances at C in Fig 2 and Fig 3.
  - If the valve clearance exceeds the standard, replace the adjustment shim. See VALVE CLEARANCE ADJUSTMENT .
  Standard [Engine Cold]
  
  IN: 0.245-0.315 mm {0.0097-0.0124 in}
  
  EX: 0.265-0.335 mm {0.0105-0.0131 in}
Install the cylinder head cover. See CYLINDER HEAD COVER INSTALLATION NOTE .
Install the intake manifold.