Triumphrat

retrobiker · 09-25-2007

I removed the rocker inspection caps to set the valve clearances.Problem was one of them would not thread back all the way even though I was careful not to switch locations on them.Could I have stripped the thread somehow?
Also since I used the fingertight and back 1/8 method to set the clearance,I'm not sure if I ended up with excessive clearance.I get a slight clicking when I open the throttle.Should I reset the clearance?
How do I know for sure that oil is getting to the top of the rockers?
Thanks in advance.

P.S. On a positive note,I think I got it timed right,even though it was my first effort with a timing light.

TBS · 09-26-2007

The caps should always thread all the way, otherwise they will leak. Try restarting it or switch them and see what happens. The threads on the caps can easily wear, but check the thread of the rocker box, it may have a small burr. Oil will always get to the rockers, they don't need mutch. I always set the clearances on my Bonnevilles at 5 thou. It's better to have a larger gap than no gap at all and burn your valves. Finger tight and back 1 flat gives 10 thou.

GrandPaulZ · 09-27-2007

You really ought not run the clearances so loose, it'll beat up the tappets and the valve stem tips.

Plus, it just won't run as well.

Set them cold, by the book. Yes, you can err a little on the loose side, rather than the tight side, but .005 is too loose, especially for the intakes.

TBS · 09-27-2007

I always use lash caps on the valves and mushroom tappet adjusters, then you can check that the rocker geometry is ok. The standard adjusters on top of the small valve tip makes the sweep marginal. Also the adjusters, unless radiused, dig into the valve tip, which makes accurate clearances difficult to measure with a feeler gauge. By running a slightly larger clearance than standard 2 and 4 thou, you will always be sure that the valves are seated. Nothing worse than running tight clearances and then burning your valves and seats. Ok the best way I set them when I was racing Triumphs is to set them to zero when hot, and that is quite painful I can assure you!! But by setting them wider than standard allows for the clearances to close, which they will after a while.