Tuning Valve clearances

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Tuning Valve clearances

Paolo66

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Hi all
Can anybody explain in simple terms the correct procedure for setting up the valve clearances please?
The Haynes manual is a little vague and as both pistons rise together I get mixed up which one is on compression and which is on exhaust.
I've set them up but I'm pretty sure I've got it wrong
Cheers
Damian
 
Hi, If both pistons are at TDC, one pair of tappets will be tight and the valves open, the other pair will be loose and should have the required clearance as this is the cylinder on compression.
 
Don't worry about the piston positions. Standing at the back of the car with the rocker cover removed if the rocker nearest to you is number 1 then the furthest is number 4. Manualy turn the engine using fan belt & pulleys , plugs out if necessary and when number 1 rocker goes right down then adjust the clearance on number 4 rocker. 2 goes down, adjust 3. 3 down adjust 2 and finaly number 4 rocker down adjust number 1. You do not have to do it in this order it is just easier to explain like this.
 
Line up timing mark on pulley next to the one on the chain cover.
One set of tappets will be tight. Adjust the loose ones.
Turn pulley 360 until marks align again. The other cylinder's tappets can then be done.
Just noticed, this has already been said.
 
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Just today I was wondering how to adjust the valves. Mine have a little too much clatter. Thanks for the instructions!
 
Toshi is spot-on...ignore my advice. Tried it his way and found I had the inlets very slightly wide and the exhausts slightly tight. The car had started having that annoying problem when it sometimes stalls on tickover when hot...sorted.:)
 
Very helpful. I need to check my valve clearances but am a complete beginner. What tools do I need?

I assume a feeler gauge and a new gasket but not am not sure on the sizes of wrenches or anything else need to do this. Have no tools yet so will need to buy them!
 
I'm not sure it is vital but I purchased an adjuster tool. Available from all good 500 spares providers when you order the gasket etc, e.g.

https://www.ricambio.co.uk/valve-adjustment-tool-classic-fiat-500-126

I did try pliers at first and snapped off the top of the adjuster but others may have suggestions on what they use.

Otherwise just normal spanners for the cover, lock nuts and to turn the engine.

I'm very inexperienced compared to most here and found this fairly easy (and have done multiple times).

BTW, if ordering gaskets it is worth being a few as I found I was regularly removing the rocker cover (and I think you are supposed to replace the gasket each time?).
 
If you are using a 'silicon' gasket, you will not have to replace it every time you have the rocker-cover off. To adjust the tappets, as Andrew suggested, one of the tappet adjusting tools would be a sensible purchase. The spanner size for the locking nut is 11mm on the later engines, but check before adjusting the tappets (use a RING spanner, not an 'open')
 
Thank you. Is there a specific tappet adjusting tool for 500s? Or should something like this cover it?

It looks like there is something in that kit which might work.

The Fiat tool number 185011/000 (taken from stamping on an actual item) is pictured. I think many people would have the skill/facility to make something like it. You could possibly adapt something in a 1/4 drive socket set or even from a piece of solid bar..

The slot is rounded at both ends and a 3mm twist-drill fits snugly.

The tool does make adjustments extremely easy and gives you precise control.
 

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Ricambio sell a tool purpose built for the 500 (pic attached). Different to your official fiat one but still looks straight forward to use. So presumably one part holds the locking nut still while you adjust the gap with the inner part...
 

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That is correct---the Sealey tool is too small with regard to 'spanner' size and neither of the 'females' match the Fiat tappet top
 
I'm not sure it is vital but I purchased an adjuster tool. Available from all good 500 spares providers when you order the gasket etc, e.g.

https://www.ricambio.co.uk/valve-adjustment-tool-classic-fiat-500-126

I did try pliers at first and snapped off the top of the adjuster but others may have suggestions on what they use.

Otherwise just normal spanners for the cover, lock nuts and to turn the engine.

I'm very inexperienced compared to most here and found this fairly easy (and have done multiple times).

BTW, if ordering gaskets it is worth being a few as I found I was regularly removing the rocker cover (and I think you are supposed to replace the gasket each time?).

Sorry missed this earlier. Thanks
 
Would the adjusting tool replace the need for the 11mm spanner on the locking nut? Or is the tool solely to hold it place rather than tighten properly
 
Would the adjusting tool replace the need for the 11mm spanner on the locking nut? Or is the tool solely to hold it place rather than tighten properly

Hi, the picture of the Ricambio tool you showed in post #15 has the adjuster in the wrong way around, the tool has an 11mm socket for the locknut the T bar adjusts the tappet. It's a good tool, I use one every time, you only need a feeler gauge too. (y)(y)(y)
Ian.
 
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