How to adjust the valve clearance of BYD F3?
3 Answers
When adjusting, first loosen the lock nut and adjusting screw, insert a feeler gauge of the same thickness as the specified valve clearance between the valve stem and rocker arm of the valve to be adjusted. Rotate the adjusting screw and pull the feeler gauge back and forth until slight resistance is felt. After tightening the lock nut, recheck the clearance. If there is any change, readjustment is required. There are two main methods for adjusting valve clearance: 1. Cylinder-by-cylinder adjustment method: This method only requires turning the cylinder to be adjusted to the top dead center of its compression stroke (at this time, both the intake and exhaust valves are completely closed) to adjust the valve clearance. This method requires finding the top dead center of each cylinder's compression stroke and remembering the firing order of the engine (ignition order for gasoline engines and injection order for diesel engines). 2. Two-step adjustment method: This method adjusts all valves on the engine in two steps. It is simple to operate and highly efficient. No matter how many cylinders there are, only two adjustments are needed to complete the entire process.
I remember that time when I helped my friend adjust the valve clearance on his BYD F3, the whole process was quite interesting. First, it's essential to operate when the engine is cold, turn off the ignition switch and remove the negative battery terminal to prevent accidents. Then, locate the valve cover on the engine, remove it with a wrench, and remember to clean the surrounding dust. Next, rotate the crankshaft to position the first cylinder at top dead center of the compression stroke, using a wrench to gently turn the crankshaft pulley and carefully align the marking points. Now, use a feeler gauge to measure each valve's clearance; the standard for the BYD F3 is about 0.15-0.25mm for intake valves and 0.25-0.35mm for exhaust valves, which may vary slightly depending on the model year—check the manual for specifics. If the clearance is off, loosen the lock nut, use a screwdriver to fine-tune the adjusting screw until the feeler gauge just passes through with slight resistance, then retighten the nut. After measuring and adjusting all valves, reinstall the valve cover and tighten the screws to prevent oil leaks. Don't forget to start the engine and listen for smooth operation; if not, recheck. Make sure to have all necessary tools ready, like a feeler gauge set and wrenches, and don't cut corners by using your hands. I forgot to wear gloves and ended up getting dirty all over. Regularly adjusting valve clearance can reduce engine noise and abnormal wear, so BYD F3 owners should consider adding this to their maintenance routine to keep the engine running longer.
I always feel that adjusting valve clearance is something to be done with caution, and it's better not to take risks. For the BYD F3, if you're not familiar with mechanics, it's advisable to seek help from a professional mechanic to avoid damaging the engine. The basic process is: let the engine cool for a few minutes, open the engine hood and valve cover, and use a wrench or tool to rotate the crankshaft to the top dead center of the first cylinder. Use a feeler gauge to measure the clearance, with the standard value for the intake valve being 0.15-0.25mm, and the exhaust valve slightly larger at 0.25-0.35mm. If the clearance is too large, the engine will be noisy; if it's too small, there will be insufficient power and increased fuel consumption. When adjusting, don't use too much force; gently turn the screw and ensure the lock nut is securely tightened. After completion, reinstall the cover and start the car to listen to the engine sound. For safety, I emphasize wearing protective goggles and clearing debris to avoid slipping. If valve issues occur frequently, it might indicate engine aging, requiring a comprehensive inspection and maintenance. The BYD F3 has a simple design, but when DIYing, assess your capabilities and prioritize safety.
