How do you ajust valves on a 350 Chevy?

Answer 1

First off, let me say that you should watch someone experienced, once, because you can crash a valve into a piston, fairly easy, which will destroy your motor. And, if you make is past that hurdle, and don't get them right, your motor will pop out of the induction system, and not run right at all. However, I am going to answer your question, as best as possible. Get a set of deflector clips, from your local parts store. They probably have a set hanging on the wall. The alternative would be to get an old valve cover, and cut a slot out, down the center. The proper way to do this, you have to run the engine, with the rocker box's off. (valve covers) With the motor running, loosen the first one, SLOWLY, until it begins to rattle. Again, SLOWLY, begin to tighten it back up, until it just quiets. This is called 0, lash. Rule of thumb, for a stock small block, they tighten 1/2, to a full turn, from there. I would advice 3/4. Tighten a quarter of a turn at a time. And, SLOWLY. The most accurate way to tighten them, is with a vaccuum gauge. You would slowly tighten, until max., vaccuum, is achieved. Now, this is a stock, small block, with hydraulic lifters. Solid lifters, for performance use, will have an actual lash, or clearance, in them. Tougher job. I would only advise a pro., for these!