Kirk Engines Valve Lash Tool or Traditional Feeler Gauge For First Timer?

[eaton]

I'm getting ready to adjust my valves for the first time. I was on Pelican to buy the feeler gauge tool when I noticed the much more expensive Kirk Engines valve lash tool. Anyone using it? I'm thinking I'll go the traditional route (worked for decades, right?). But figured I'd get some opinions.

[NeunElf]

I've always found setting valve clearance with the usual Porsche feeler gauge to be fairly easy.



At least in the early 911s access to the valve adjustment's fairly unrestricted; maybe the "Kirk" tool is more valuable with later cars with more things in the engine bays.

[eaton]

Thanks. Will go with the feeler gauge.

[edmayo]

The feeler gauge method works fine,,,,,,but it depends on "feel" which the mechanic has to have a 'feel' for. Most people adjust valve clearance too loose, there needs to be an amount of drag when walking the gauge thru. When you think it is too tight it's probably about right.

[John912]

Ed, my left arm is "physically challenged" making it difficult to use standard L-shape feeler gauge to do some of the intakes on top. So, I've been using a longer, straight feeler gauge to access the intakes from the bottom side. Other than having to go from top to bottom, do you see any issues with checking the intakes from the bottom? Obviously, intake adjustments need to be from the top. Thanks for all your solid advice over the years....

[edmayo]

Doesn't matter how the gauge gets there, as long as the 'feel ' is correct. As long as the gauge is parallel to the adjuster foot.

[Norm01]

I have also been thinking about the Kirk tool. To me it becomes a mathematical equation with that tool rather than feel. I think I would be more comfortable that it was done right. Any comments from people who have used it.

[NeunElf]

I have also been thinking about the Kirk tool. To me it becomes a mathematical equation with that tool rather than feel. I think I would be more comfortable that it was done right. Any comments from people who have used it.

I haven't used it, but there's still some "feel" involved. Apparently, you have to bottom the adjuster (zero clearance) and then back off by the appropriate angular rotation to get the correct clearance. There will still be some "feel" involved in bottoming the adjuster.

Maybe there's less variation in bottoming the Kirk tool than in using a feeler gauge but it isn't 100% automatic.

[37yrold911]

the thing to do is to set your valves with supervision - a friend or your friendly neighborhood mechanic down on the corner next to the bodega

try it a few times - or hey! do 'em all -- you'll get the feel of it

and you won't need no stinkin' badges

[bliebler]

The feeler gauge method works fine,,,,,,but it depends on "feel" which the mechanic has to have a 'feel' for. Most people adjust valve clearance too loose, there needs to be an amount of drag when walking the gauge thru. When you think it is too tight it's probably about right.

I use 2 blades as the blade tends to get scratched and out of shape about 1/2 way,