Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
1989 Suzuki SamuraiFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Valve Clearance
- Remove valve cover. Remove ignition timing check window rubber plug from clutch housing. Rotate engine until zero degree timing mark is in line with match mark.
- Cylinder No. 1 should be at TDC. Remove distributor cap and ensure that rotor is pointed at distributor hold-down assembly. If not, rotate engine 360 degrees.
- Check clearance of intake valves at cylinder No. 1 and 2, and cylinder No. 1 and 3 exhaust valves. Turn crankshaft one complete revolution. Check clearance of intake valves at cylinder No. 3 and 4, and cylinder No. 2 and 4 exhaust valves.
- Adjust valves by loosening locknut and turning adjustment screw until clearance is at specification. Hold adjustment screw while tightening locknut and recheck clearance.
VALVE CLEARANCE SPECIFICATIONS
| Application | Clearance In. (mm) | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Intake | (1) .005-.006 (.13-.17) | ||
| Exhaust | (1) .007-.008 (.16-.20) | ||
|
|||
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.
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.