Adjusting valves

[bardfromedson]

Just finished up with the 1hr break in on a 85 350 from rapido marine. After dumping the oil I want to do a valve adjustment while it's running. I have read a few good forum topics on it but can't seem to find them now. Can someone point me in the right direction. I think I remember some people like to roll the lifter and tighten until it stops rolling and go another half turn. Another method is loosen off until the valve chatters and then go until it stops chattering then go another half to 3/4. Am I out to lunch or is this acceptable. It's my first time doing this so any and all advice is welcome.

 

[MikDee]

It can get messy, but works the best. Warm up engine, take valve covers off, one at a time. Start engine, put a ratchet on with 9/16" deep socket I believe. At idle, loosen one up till you just hear a clatter, then snug back down slowly, till it's quiet. That's zero lash. Next, slowly tighten down 1/4" turn at a time to 1/2, 3/4, or 1 turn. You decide? Next move on, and do the rest of the lifters this way. I personally like 1/2 a turn, so they won't come loose, but IMO, the engine seems more "lively" here. You can continue on to 1 turn for full action of the valve, but IMO again, the engine gets a little more sluggish. As I think about it, my way gives you a more responsive engine at low end, At 1 turn, you would get maybe a bit less low end torque, a but more power at top rpm.