First time checking valve clearance

Much to my dismay I have pulled my valve cover to check valve clearance. Didn't want to do it but Steve and some other guys talked me into it. I'm glad I did since I can only squeeze maybe a 3 or 4 feeler gauge between each one. I have a couple questions though. 1. Is there any way to tell if they are the stock cams or aftermarket? The po claims to have put aftermarket cams in there and I would like to verify that. 2. If they are aftermarket is my valve tolerance going to be the same?

Pics will help identify the cams. Are you saying they are tight?
Steve

Yes they are tight. The smallest feeler I can fit is a 4. I think I'm using the right method. This is the fsm I have

I measure in inches. .002-.004 etc.
Steve

Yes. At least the 4 or 5 that I checked. I plan on checking again tomorrow and posting the results

What engine is this?
Steve

Not sure actually. Im at work but have the vin # can I decode the vin to find out which engine?

Year what size, etc.
Steve

Two observations / questions.

You don't say if you are working on a BSA, Harley, Kawasaki, or what. Do yourself and us a favor and give us a clue. Assuming it's a KZ of some sort, it could be anything from a single cylinder KZ 200 up to a 6 cylinder KZ1300. As you can imagine, the many KZ models do not all use the same type valve adjustments or valve clearance specs. You really should add the year and model of your motorcycle to your signature line. That way you will not need to try to remember to put it in every posting.

You state "I can only squeeze maybe a 3 or 4 feeler gauge between each one." What the heck is a "3 or 4 feeler gauge"? Valve clearances are measured in mm or inches. To my knowledge, there are no feeler gauges that are simply numbered 1, 2, 3, 4, etc.

Thanks,
Ed

I've been answering two threads. No problem but a little confusing. :dry:
Steve

77 kz650

650ed wrote: Two observations / questions.

You don't say if you are working on a BSA, Harley, Kawasaki, or what. Do yourself and us a favor and give us a clue. Assuming it's a KZ of some sort, it could be anything from a single cylinder KZ 200 up to a 6 cylinder KZ1300. As you can imagine, the many KZ models do not all use the same type valve adjustments or valve clearance specs. You really should add the year and model of your motorcycle to your signature line. That way you will not need to try to remember to put it in every posting.

You state "I can only squeeze maybe a 3 or 4 feeler gauge between each one." What the heck is a "3 or 4 feeler gauge"? Valve clearances are measured in mm or inches. To my knowledge, there are no feeler gauges that are simply numbered 1, 2, 3, 4, etc.

Thanks,
Ed

Sorry. I meant inches 0.003 0.004 etc