T Hex adjustor tool - valve adjustment - is it a required tool?

[oconnord]

The SHOShop lists four tools needed for the valve lash, but the Shotimes website lists the source for two: tappet depressor and tappet holder, both from OTC. I called and both are available for a combined total of about $35.

My question is about the other two tools listed on the SHOShop document, T Hex adjustor tool and the shim pick set. Do I need these to do the job? If so, is there a locally available standard tool that I can use in the place of them? The T Hex adjustor lists for $59 and I would prefer to not buy it if it isn't required.
The shim pick set appears to be a dental pick set which I'm sure I could find something to use in its place.

Did extensive search on past topics but I couldn't find anything to answer my question, particulary about the T Hex adjustor tool.

Thanks for any responses.

 

[projectSHO89]

A cheap dental pick and a small pickup magnet are all you will need in addition to the two tools from OTC. The pick set is available from harborfreight for a couple dollars or you can find one elsewhere.

You will also need a set of feeler guages. Regular flat SAE ones will work. Metric ones with a 30 degree bend on the tips will make things easier.

I have never before heard any mention of the T-Hex tool nor have I needed one. I also have no clue as to what this tool actually is....You will need a 5 mm hex (Allen) to remove and reinstall the valve covers.

Steve

 

[fredhurderjr]

It is a HANDY tool, but not NECESSARY Dan. I have one, as it's the correct length & hex size for the accessory belts.

It's a "T" handle top, attached to about 18-24" long rod shaft, with a 5mm hex end bit on the end.

You can use a typical allen hex key, or if you work it, a socket-style hex end bit with adapters.

Before the actual $60 tool came my way, I had fabbed up a 1/4" long extension w/ a 5mm socket on the end, with a straight piece of 5mm allen hex key I had ground off.

FYI, the OTC Pick Tool is a lot stronger than the Snap-On picks I have. For repeated use, I recommend the OTC unit, so you don't "snap" a piece of the pick underneath a shim or something if the tappet holder slips off.

 

[sdpatt]

The T-hex tool is required for adjusting the accessory belt tensioners on the 3.0L engine. The power steering pump belt tensioner is almost impossible to reach without it. You do not need this tool for the valve gap adjustment. The Allen headed valve cover bolts just happen to use the same size bit.

 

[oconnord]

Thanks for the replies. I called OTC about the pick set and nobody could locate. Anybody have a part number for that? Is the T Hex adjustor also a OTC tool?

 

[jelloslug]

Instead of a pick I used a very small screwdriver (jeweler size). For the T-handle I used a hex socket bit on a long 1/4" extension.

 

[fredhurderjr]

T-Hex is not an OTC.

Pick Tool is OTC # 100-010 I believe, Ford # T71P-19703-C, info courtesy of SHO Nut's site.

 

[pjtoledo]

sdpatt:
The T-hex tool is required for adjusting the accessory belt tensioners on the 3.0L engine. The power steering pump belt tensioner is almost impossible to reach without it. You do not need this tool for the valve gap adjustment. The Allen headed valve cover bolts just happen to use the same size bit.

Those of us that have sets of Jensen tools with the interchangeable bits don't need that T hex. Hook a couple of extensions on the 5mm bit and its SHOw time!!!!
(to all)
For the pick, just hit a good hardware store for a machinist's awl. A lot of the small bolts on our engines deserve a 1/4" socket set. Being small in diameter, a 1/4" extension and allen socket easily reach the power steering belt adjuster.


Perry Toledo,Ohio

<small>[ February 18, 2003, 08:06 PM: Message edited by: pjtoledo ]</small>