1997 Lexus SC 400FACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Valve Clearance: Notes

NOTE: Check and adjust valves with engine cold.
  1. Remove engine undercover. Drain coolant. Remove battery cover. Remove air cleaner inlet. Remove engine cover. Remove air cleaner cover and intake air assembly (air ducting). Disconnect control cables from throttle body.
  2. Remove timing belt upper covers. Disconnect hoses and electrical connectors as necessary. Remove throttle body. Remove transmission oil dipstick. Remove spark plug wires and spark plugs. Remove cylinder head covers.
  3. Rotate crankshaft clockwise until piston No. 1 is at TDC of compression stroke. Ensure groove on crankshaft pulley aligns with "0" timing mark on timing belt cover. Timing marks on camshaft pulleys should align with timing marks on timing belt rear plates.
  4. Measure and record clearance of intake valves for cylinders No. 1, 2, 5, 7 and 8, and exhaust valves for cylinders No. 1, 4 and 8. Rotate crankshaft 360 degrees. Measure and record clearance of intake valves for cylinders No. 3, 4 and 6, and exhaust valves for cylinders No. 2, 3, 5, 6 and 7.
  5. Compare measured clearance with specified clearance. See VALVE CLEARANCE SPECIFICATIONS table. If clearance is within specification, go to step 8). If clearance is not within specification, rotate crankshaft until camshaft lobe of valve to be adjusted is facing upward, away from shim.
    VALVE CLEARANCE SPECIFICATIONS

    Application In. (mm)
    Intake .006-.010 (.15-.25)
    Exhaust .010-.014 (.25-.36)
  6. Using a screwdriver, rotate valve lifter until notch is at a 90-degree angle to camshaft (perpendicular), facing centerline of cylinder head. Using Valve Lifter Press (SST 09248-05011), press valve lifter downward. Install Valve Lifter Stopper (SST 09248-05021) between camshaft and valve lifter. Remove valve lifter press. Using compressed air and magnet, remove shim by blowing air into shim hole.
  7. Select a shim of appropriate thickness. See SELECTING SHIMS at end of VALVE CLEARANCE. Place shim onto valve lifter with imprinted numbers facing down. Press downward on valve lifter using valve lifter press. Remove valve lifter stopper. Recheck valve clearance after shim is installed.
  8. To complete installation, reverse removal procedure. Use NEW gaskets as necessary. Tighten nuts and bolts to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS.
Fig 1: Valve Adjusting Sequence Step 1
G90G20764Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
Factory Service Tools

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.

Disclosure: Verified tool recommendations may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.

Shop Manual-Ready ToolsCompare Repair QuoteQuote Shield Pro

When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.

Rather have a pro handle this?

A certified mobile mechanic comes to your home or office. They bring the tools, you stay comfortable. No tow truck, no waiting room, no surprises.

Comes to youSame-day available12-month warranty
Get a Free Quote

No obligation. See pricing before you book.