valve adjustment with alt in way...

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May 26, 2008 | 10:30 AM

Bowtie_Aaron

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From: Walnutport, PA

valve adjustment with alt in way...

just got done doing head gaskets on my 94 lt1.

i need to know how should i adjust the valve? im guessing i have to do it while its off because the alt is in the way.

everytime i adjust valves, i set them close with the pushrod method, and then fire it up, let it build some oil pressure and then adjust them while running.
but on the TA it seem's i cant because the alt is right over top of the valve cover.
so i guess i have to do the IOEC method?

thanks.

aaron

May 26, 2008 | 02:28 PM

Formula350

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From: Decatur, TN (N-W of Athens)

So start the car, get oil pressure built up (what, 15seconds max?) then shut it down, take off the alternator and fire it back up. Adjust the valves that you need to, shut it down, put the alternator back on and do the rest

May 26, 2008 | 03:13 PM

Badazz 97 TA

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From: Arizona

or just do it with the car off. whats wrong with that

. why do you have to do it with the engine running?

May 26, 2008 | 03:33 PM

leadfoot4

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From: Webster, NY

I know that there's a lot of disagreement over this, but I think you can get a more accurate adjustment with the engine hot and running...Obviously you have to be careful and have good ears, to pick up when the lifter just starts to click, and not continue to loosen the adjusting nut until you pop the pushrod out of place.....

Having said that... remove the serpentine belt, disconnect the battery positive lead, remove the alternator, place a 12" length of rubber hose over the power lead from the back of the alternator in order to insulate it, and duct tape it securely to the fenderwell, making sure the power terminal is a couple of inches down in the hose, reconnect the battery. Start engine, and adjust away to your hearts' content.

When satisfied, disconnect the battery, install valve covers, alternator and belt, reconnect alternator THEN battery, and happy motoring!

May 26, 2008 | 04:21 PM

Formula350

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From: Decatur, TN (N-W of Athens)

Quote:

Originally Posted by leadfoot4

-_- That's what I said lol Minus insulating the alt power lead.

I agree with getting a more accurate adjustment with the motor running. Just saves having to do it down the road after some mileage is put on.

May 26, 2008 | 05:23 PM

the_merv

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From: The Beach...

I've never had a problem and I always did it with the Engine cold..

May 26, 2008 | 06:09 PM

BOLO

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From: Mundelein,Illinois

Quote:

Originally Posted by the_merv

I've never had a problem and I always did it with the Engine cold..

2nd on that. No messy oil all over the engine bay. Search for valve adjustments in this forum.

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May 26, 2008 | 08:30 PM

BattleShip

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From: I moved to over there

ditto cold.

Engine builders obviously set them cold, and don't make you readjust them. If it is good enouh for a high dollar builder I will do the same.

May 26, 2008 | 11:01 PM

#10

Bowtie_Aaron

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From: Walnutport, PA

i have done it both ways.

IOEC method when its cold is easy when the motor is out and you have room, but my when its in the car, its much easier to tighten to zero lash (pushrod method), and then do final when its running.

thanks for the advice guys.

aaron

May 27, 2008 | 06:56 AM

#11

leadfoot4

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From: Webster, NY

Quote:

Originally Posted by Formula350

Thing is, if you don't mention the alternator lead and insulating it, someone will not do it, get a good JOLT out of it, and then try to sue you for not protecting them from themselves.....

May 27, 2008 | 08:07 AM

#12

Formula350

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From: Decatur, TN (N-W of Athens)

Quote:

Originally Posted by leadfoot4

Thing is, if you don't mention the alternator lead and insulating it, someone will not do it, get a good JOLT out of it, and then try to sue you for not protecting them from themselves.....

Good thing about forums, is you're protected from those sort of things. It's a "Use at your own risk" deal, since no one is forcing anyone to do what they say.

Honestly, I'd have left it all connected still and just moved. Unless the cable is in the way of something, but I'm sure it has enough room.