Topic: Yes! I know I am an idiot, but... (Newbie)

[cyclezirk]

I am trying to adjust the valves for my first time ever working on an engine.  I have the books and have read the forums, etc.  I can't seem to get the feeler guage under the exhaust valves.  I removed the 8 valve adjuster caps, all spark plugs, and the breaker points cover.  I turned the crankshaft until both no. 1 valves were up and lined the timing plate up with T 1.4 mark.  I adjusted the intake valve on cylinder 1 and now am trying the exhaust valve.  I can't get the feeler guage under the rocker arm.  I have bent the guage into a little curl, loosened the lock nut and screw quite a ways.  What am not doing right?

Zirk
73 cb750k3

[cbfreaky750]

well you are on the right track. it is a pain to get the feeler gauges underneath the arms make you sure you rotate the engine untill the cam lobe is not touching the tappet yoour working on    have fun 

[GroovieGhoulie]

Try your #4 cylinder.  When the timing palte is at 1.4 both pistons are up, but one is on the top of the exhaust stroke, so the exhaust valve will be open, hence pressure will be on the tappet and valve.

Adjust #4, it should be at TDC, then rotate it 360* and adjust #1.

[crazypj]

easiest way to find top dead centre compression (where it needs to be to do tappets ) is to watch the intake valve rocker arm .When it moves down your on intake cycle, it moves up your approaching TDCC. If your on no 1 cyl (far left sitting on bike) you do no. 1 int/ex, no. 2 ex, no. 3 int no. 4 is on overlap so leave it alone. turn motor 360 degrees back to tdc1/4 and do whichever are 'loose( no. 4 int/ex, no. 3 ex, no. 2 int no. 1 will be on overlap, both valves partly open)
PJ

[cyclezirk]

Well...I done fixed 'er.  I adjusted all the valves and replaced all spark plugs and caps.  It fired right up and was running on all 4 cylinders (all four pipes were hot).  It idled evenly at 1100rpm for the first time since I acquired it.  Now to the points and condensors, new air filter, new front wheel/tire, master brake rebuild (front brake is sticking or else I would have taken it for a spin), etc , etc .......... this will be my daily commuter for the next 3 years, that is until I can afford (time, money, and a garage) to do a complete rebuild.

Thanks for all your help.

[quietlikeachurch]

Good luck with the new (old) bike.  Once you adjust the valves a few times you can almost do it with your eyes closed.  These things make great daily commuters...my 750F had been sitting for 20 years when I bought it, and after some careful cleaning and oiling, it started right up.  After 4 years as my only running vehicle, it still starts with one kick.  I've spent a bunch of time and money fixing up the chassis, but have never cracked the engine open.  Just make sure you tune it regularly and change the oil frequently.

Have fun!
-Ian