Valve Question

[Bob Atkinson]

Do Oil head Valves tend to loosen or tighten up as the miles rack up? Which is less likley to cause engine damage loose or tight?

[Bud]

Do Oil head Valves tend to loosen or tighten up as the miles rack up? Which is less likley to cause engine damage loose or tight?

 

Bob,

 

The wisdom here seems to be that they don't do either. Once things are worn in, they seem to need adjustment less frequently.

 

Tight is worse than loose.

[flyingreg]

Do Oil head Valves tend to loosen or tighten up as the miles rack up? Which is less likley to cause engine damage loose or tight?

 

Bob,

 

The wisdom here seems to be that they don't do either. Once things are worn in, they seem to need adjustment less frequently.

 

Tight is worse than loose.

Not exactly correct. Although the valves once seated do not change much, the valve seats do wear ever so slightly and will cause the gap at the tappet to shrink as the valve seats further into the seat. So, tighter valves can cause the valve to not close completely. A valve that is open during the combustion process will burn rather quickly. That said, you should check your valve adjustment regularly, according to the maintenance schedule from the manufacturer.

 

Hope that answers your question.