Section 9 - 4
Azalea Aviation Copyright 2014
Fig. 3 – Rockers installed and ready for adjustment
Valve Adjustment:
Some consider this to be the most complicated part of the valve train installation.
Take time to read and understand the procedure before performing the tasks. It is
actually quite simple, just don’t forget any of the steps. Here we go…
#1. Find TDC (Top Dead Center) on cylinder # 1. Write the cylinder numbers on
the case edge to assure proper adjustment. Using your ¾” socket and wrench on
the starter end, or prop hub tool and turn the engine (direction of prop rotation -
clockwise) until # 1 piston is all the way up in the cylinder. Use a flashlight look at
the cam lobes for cylinder #1. They should be pointing away from Cylinder 1.
They will appear to be at an angle - this is normal. If they are pointing toward the
cylinder rotate the crankshaft one full turn (360 degrees) and check again. This
should be TDC Compression stroke. The flat of the crankshaft will be horizontal
and connecting rod fully extended into the cylinder. (Fig 4) The timing mark on
the alternator drum should be pointing to the “0” mark on the rear housing.
