Honda K Series Valve Clatter

[Dave]

I did a valve adjustment and followed Eric’s video in the process. I made sure the next higher (out of spec) feeler gauge would not fit. My engine was like Eric’s — the exhaust valves were very tight, and the intake side was slightly loose. The engine feels smooth and at speed is quieter when accelerating or going up steep hills.

That said, at IDLE, while standing outside on the sides of the vehicle, I can really hear the exhaust valves clattering away. The clatter isn’t severe nor surprising given their location and the fact I loosened them up. With the windows closed I can’t hear the exhaust valves at all.

My question is how much “weight” do you give audible valve noise and at what RPM when you’ve meticulously adjusted them to within spec?

Topic

[college man]

audible noise is preference. If you feel its to loud you will need to go back in.
If its performing correctly I would leave it.

[John Ferguson]

You might try using a different engine oil. Better quality oils have special additives to reduce the tappet slap. As my Volvo got older I switched from a 5W-30 to 10W-30 Synthetic blend oil for high mileage engines and that made the tappet noise almost disappear. It also reduced oil consumption by about 40%.

[zero]

[quote=”SLOjohnny” post=163313]You might try using a different engine oil. Better quality oils have special additives to reduce the tappet slap. As my Volvo got older I switched from a 5W-30 to 10W-30 Synthetic blend oil for high mileage engines and that made the tappet noise almost disappear. It also reduced oil consumption by about 40%.[/quote]

NO.

Depending on the variation of the motor, there are several different parts of the engine and valve timing system that rely heavily on proper oil flow.

[Author]

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