Hey all, just replaced my head gasket cause I had a little white smoke not much just on startup. After I replace the head gasket I couldn't get it started and finally found out I needed to adjust the valves. Adjusted them COLD to .007 on in and .011 on ex and she started right up! She runs smooth. Except I have a clicking sound and I'm assuming its the valves? This is my first time doing this and I have never heard valves before so I have nothing to go off of but it definitely sounds like it coming from the back of the valve cover.
So my questions are...
1. If it is the valve how do I determine which one it is?
2. Do I tighten it or loosen it?
3. Should I run it to get it hot and then adjust the valves?

Quick replies are much appreciated!

-Zane

 

1. Kind of hard to pinpoint the exact valve but you may be able to determine which cylinder using a stethoscope on the valve cover.

2. Use your feeler gauge and adjust normally according to the gauge.

3. If I'm not mistaken, the FSM will call for the motor to be at normal operating temp before the valve adjustment.

4. Before any of that, try backing off the acorn nuts that hold the valve cover on just a tad. The torque specs on the valve cover are only 7-9 lbs/sq in. An over tightened valve cover will cause the rockers to tap the valve cover causing a tapping sound.

 

id bet on #4

 

You were correct! It was number 4 on the diver side tightened it and It helped a bit. Need to tighten it some more and then time her because she idles high. Thanks for the replies guys

 

Awesome. Congrats on a successful head gasket job. Get her timed correctly and get out and enjoy that truck!