shim procedure

[NOTAURIUS]

Is it possible to measure all the shim clearances on a head and then remove the cams to replace the valve seals and adjusting the shims all at once? I ask this because i dont have the shim tools. Ive never pulled my cams off before so any advice would help. Also where can i buy a set of shims?

 

[fredhurderjr]

Once you upset the pressure on the cams down on the valve springs, you run the risk of not getting the correct shim gaps. It's not as bad as removing the heads, but you aren't going to be guaranteed an accurate measurement.

One problem is if you don't remove the cams properly, they can warp slightly too. Not as likely with a solid cam like the V6, but still it's mentioned in the Shop Manuals.

If you're going to do the valve adjustment, buy the tools (or rent). Also, while it's possible to remove the shims & check for what shims you have, and what shims you (hypothetically) need, you'll wait weeks for the shims to come in, and you run the chance of needing something slightly different. When shims are more than 4 sizes off, I've found you can't necessarily go strictly by the math - 5 shim sizes off may require a 4-shim size off shim to hit the mean mark. Just an observation.

Good luck in your 60k.

 

[NOTAURIUS]

i see what youre saying about releasing the spring pressure possibly changing the specs, but what do you mean its not as bad as taking the heads off? My heads are already off- i just thought id be better off to do it now before putting the whole engine back together. thanks.

 

[projectSHO89]

I personally don't see a problem with measuring each gap (twice), recording the values, removing the camshafts, measuring (or inspecting each individual shim - twice), then installing the correct shim at reassembly time after all repairs have been made. A final check of each shim's gap should then be made.

Steve

 

[jelloslug]

One thing to take in consideration also it that the shim tools are not expensive, they are around $35 for the set. You will end up needing them later if you ever have to readjust the valves again.