Valve Clearance: Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Nissan Sentra. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: The following procedure is applicable when: components related to camshafts or valves are removed, installed, or replaced. Driveability concerns (poor starting, poor idling, noise) are caused by valve clearance aging.

Warm engine and stop.
Remove RH splash cover.
Remove the rocker cover. Refer to "ROCKER COVER ".
Remove all of the spark plugs.
Set No. 1 cylinder at TDC on its compression stroke.
- Align pointer with TDC mark on crankshaft pulley.
- Check that both intake and exhaust cam noses on No. 1 cylinder face outward.
- If not, turn crankshaft one revolution (360°) and align as described above.
NOTE: Or, valves to be checked when No. 4 cylinder is at TDC of its compression stroke can be checked first following step 8.

Fig 1: Aligning Pointer With TDC Mark On Crankshaft Pulley
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Referring to figure, measure valve clearances of valves with x in table below using a thickness gauge.

Fig 2: Valve Clearance Reference Table
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.

Fig 3: Setting No 1 Cylinder At TDC On Its Compression Stroke
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
- Using a feeler gauge, measure clearance between valve lifter and camshaft.
- Record any valve clearance measurements which are out of specification. They will be used later to determine the required replacement adjusting shim.
  
  Fig 4: Valve Clearance Standard Table
  Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
  
  Fig 5: Measuring Clearance Between Valve Lifter And Camshaft
  Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
If an adjustment is done with a cold engine, confirm reference values with hot engine are met.
Turn crankshaft one revolution (360°) to position No. 4 cylinder at TDC of its compression stroke.
Check only those valves shown in the figure and marked with an x in the table. See Fig 6.

Fig 6: Valve Check Table
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.

Fig 7: Positioning No. 4 Cylinder At TDC Of Its Compression Stroke
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
If outside the standard, adjust applicable valves. Refer to "ADJUSTING ".