Valve Clearance: Notes

1990 Suzuki Sidekick JSSECTION Notes
  1. Remove valve cover. Rotate engine until zero degree (TDC) timing mark of timing belt cover is in line with timing mark on crankshaft pulley. See Figure .
  2. Cylinder No. 1 should be at TDC on compression stroke. Remove distributor cap and ensure rotor is pointed upward at distributor hold-down bolt, and to No. 1 terminal of distributor cap. If not as described, rotate engine 360 degrees.
  3. Valve clearance is measured between adjustment screw and valve stem using shim thickness gauge. Check intake valve clearance of cylinders No. 1 and 2, and exhaust valve clearance of cylinders No. 1 and 3. See the VALVE CLEARANCE SPECIFICATIONS  table.
  4. Turn crankshaft one complete revolution (360 degrees). Check intake valve clearance of cylinders No. 3 and 4, and exhaust valve clearance of cylinders No. 2 and 4.
  5. Adjust valves by loosening lock nut and turning adjustment screw until clearance is at specification. After adjusting clearance, tighten adjusting screw lock nut to 11-13.5 ft. lbs. (15-18 N.m) and recheck clearance. See VALVE CLEARANCE SPECIFICATIONS  table.
VALVE CLEARANCE SPECIFICATIONS

Application Clearance In. (mm)
Engine Cold
Intake .005-.007 (.13-.18)
Exhaust .006-.008 (.15-.20)
Engine Hot
Intake .009-.011 (.23-.28)
Exhaust .010-.012 (.25-.30)
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

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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.