Rocket Rob

I have the first one.

tbennett017

I have both... the advantage to #2 is that you can easily replace the bent shim with new... which is pretty important.

Dave R.

No need for the triple-square to turn the engine over.

Put a socket on the fan pulley (19mm?) and turn clockwise with your left hand, while pressing in the fan belt on the downstream side from the fan with your right hand (slack side of the belt, not the tension side as you turn the fan pulley).

This wraps the belt a bit more around the back side of the pulley which provides more than enough additional friction purchase to easily turn the engine using the fan belt pulley even with all the spark plugs in.

Enjoy your valve adjustment - it is a zen experience. :-)

Dave R.

As to the two feeler gauges shown in Post #15, the first one is fine.

The feeler blade on it swaps out easily, just undo the two little nuts/bolts.

That second one is pretty though.

BigMikeATL

I just ordered the gasket set, oil, filter, plugs, feeler gauge, jam nut valve adjustment tool, A/C & Alternator belts.

I'm going to start the tear down next Sunday 10/27. I will also be removing the leaking line and having a new hose ends crimpped on at a hydraulic shop.

I'm sure I'll be back asking plenty of questions. Probably be back on the road by Sunday 11/4. I plan to take my time and there will probably be a bunch of "while you're in there" stuff.

RicardoD

Big Mike,

I also used the "backside" method as a check along with the regular shims. and it worked every time and correlated to my dial indicator measurements. I ordered my backside shims from McMaster car, the 12" long ones, and they worked perfect.

BigMikeATL

Reviving this thread. I have not been motivated to start the work but I think I'll start laying things out in the garage after work today. I might even get the car up on ramps (fronts) and my 6-ton jack stands (rear) tonight.