Valve Stem Height Measurement Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 Suzuki XL7. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fig 1: Identifying Distance Between Cylinder Head To Bottom Of Valve Spring Retainer

Courtesy of SUZUKI OF AMERICA CORP.

NOTE: To determine the valve stem height measurement, measure from the valve spring seat to the valve spring retainer.

Install the valve into the valve guide.
Ensure the valve is seated to the cylinder head valve seat.
Install the valve stem oil seal.
Install the valve spring retainer and valve stem locks.
Measure the distance (1) between the cylinder head to the bottom of the valve spring retainer. Refer to ENGINE MECHANICAL SPECIFICATIONS .
If the maximum height specification is exceeded, a new valve should be installed and the valve stem height remeasured.
CAUTION:
- DO NOT grind the valve stem tip. The tip of the valve is hardened and grinding the tip will eliminate the hardened surface causing premature wear and possible engine damage.
- DO NOT use shims in order to adjust valve stem height. The use of shims will cause the valve spring to bottom out before the camshaft lobe is at peak lift and engine damage could result.
If the valve stem height still exceeds the maximum height specification, the cylinder head must be replaced.

Reference: CYLINDER HEAD ASSEMBLE .