Ford Focus Service Manual: Valve Clearance Check

1. Remove the valve cover. For additional information, refer to Valve Cover in this section.

1. Remove the 2 bolts and accessory drive belt splash shield.
   • To install, tighten to 9 Nm (80 lb-in).

1. NOTE:

   Turn the engine clockwise only, and use the crankshaft bolt only.

   NOTE:

   Measure each valve's clearance at base circle, with the lobe pointed away from the tappet, before removing the camshafts. Failure to measure all clearances prior to removing the camshafts will necessitate repeated removal and installation and wasted labor time.

   Use a feeler gauge to measure each valve's clearance and record its location.

1. NOTE:

   The number on the valve tappet only reflects the digits that follow the decimal. For example, a tappet with the number 0.650 has the thickness of 3.650 mm.

   NOTE:

   The nominal clearance is 0.25 mm (0.0095 in) for intake and 0.30 mm (0.0115 in) for exhaust.

   NOTE:

   The acceptable clearances after being fully installed is 0.22-0.28 mm (0.008-0.011 in) for intake and 0.27-0.33 mm (0.010-0.013 in) for exhaust.

   Select tappets using this formula: tappet thickness = measured clearance + the existing tappet thickness - nominal clearance. Select the closest tappet size to the ideal tappet thickness available and mark the installation location.

1. If any tappets do not measure within specifications, install new tappets in these locations. For additional information, refer to Valve Train Components — Exploded View and Valve Tappets in this section.