MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR INSTRUCTIONS

7.Pull the starter rope slowly to bring the piston to the top of its travel, (known as top dead center). Check that:

•The piston is at the top of its travel while looking in the spark plug hole (Fig. 27)

•Both rocker arms move freely, and both valves are closed

If these statements are not true, repeat this step.

8.Slide the feeler gauge between the rocker arm and the valve return spring. Measure the clearance between the valve stem and rocker arm (Fig. 29). Measure both the intake and exhaust valves.

The recommended clearance for both intake and exhaust is 0.003 – 0.006 in. (0.076 – 0.152 mm). Use a standard automotive 0.005 in. (0.127 mm) feeler gauge. The feeler gauge should slide between the rocker arm and valve stem with a slight amount of resistance, without binding. See Figure 28 and 29.

Adjusting Nuts

Rocker Arms

INTAKE

EXHAUST

Feeler Gauge

Fig. 28

Adjusting Nut

Rocker Arm

0.003–0.006 in. (0.076–0.152 mm)

Feeler Gauge

Valve Stem

Fig. 29

9.If the clearance is not within specification:

a.Turn the adjusting nut using a 5/16 inch (8 mm) wrench or nut driver (Fig. 29).

•To increase clearance, turn the adjusting nut counterclockwise.

•To decrease clearance, turn the adjusting nut clockwise.

b.Recheck both clearances, and adjust as necessary.

10.Reinstall the rocker arm cover using a new gasket. Torque the screw to 20–30 in•lb (2.2–3.4 N•m).

11.Reinstall the engine cover. Check alignment of the cover before tightening the screws. Tighten screws.

12.Check the spark plug and reinstall. See Replacing the Spark Plug.

13.Replace the spark plug wire.

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