tappet adjustment

[mark__emerson]

I've heard that this needs to be done on the k20 as it will improve efficiency and reduce engine rattle. Is it true? and who is best to carry out this kind of work if it needs doing?

 

[Walkden]

Only if it needs doing. Honda specialist tuner best bet. I would avoid a main dealer unless you know them. There are a few tuners on this forum.

 

[Ash4Lotte]

theres a guide on here if your handy with a ratchet

 

[mark__emerson]

I'm not so handy with a ratchet! How do you know when it definitely needs doing? I know the K20 isn't the quietest or smoothest sounding when idling so I'm a bit of a novice on that front :S

 

[Griffin]

Take it to a normal garage. Adjusting the Valve clearances is quite easy.

 

[Hazz]

^ He speaks the truth. Anyone with a socket set and a set of feeler gauges can do this job, it is not a specialist job. Must be done from cold, although some places do claim to be able to do it from warm through experience - ie knowing roughly what clearence to work to whilst warm. Honda/Haynes clearences are to be followed ONLY from cold.

The only definative way to know whether or not they need adjusting is to measure them... which is pretty much the same job.

If you're burning more oil than normal and sounding 'tappety', valve clearences is often a first port of call.

 

[Mase]

I've heard that this needs to be done on the k20 as it will improve efficiency and reduce engine rattle. Is it true? and who is best to carry out this kind of work if it needs doing?

valve adjustment can really depend on mileage and how hard you drive your car. typically the honda engines can get noisey if the valve lash is off. It has to be off a good bit before it will reduce any power from the engine. but it can happen. Ive seen as much as 10 whp from a bad valve lash adjustment job.

I recommend taking it to someone who knows Hondas in particular. follow OEM specs unless you have aftermarket cams/valvetrain.