Re: Valve Adjustmet??? 1947 super clipper 356 engine

Posted by HH56 On 2017/4/4 15:32:41

The procedure for using the gauge tool is to remove the lifter from the tappet body. Insert the gauge tool in its place and then insert the valve in the block and guide. Put light pressure on the valve head to ensure it is tightly held against the seat. Use a feeler gauge between the stem and tool and check clearance. If the stem is too long grind the end of the stem as needed (keeping the end square) to bring the clearance into spec.

On the machinist following book specs -- pistons, if they are originals or NOS from one of the vendors then factory clearance specs are good but if the pistons might be repros then I would verify the skirt clearance with the paperwork from the mfg of the pistons. My machinist installed Egge repro pistons in a 56 engine using factory clearance specs. Those numbers turned out to be too tight for the particular repro pistons. One piston seized and another was almost at failure after just a few miles so I have first hand experience on what not to do when factory specs and some aftermarket items are mixed together.