What does 342 on the valve tappet represent?

[PeytonLee]

The number 342 on the valve tappet represents thickness. Here are the relevant details: 1. Hydraulic Tappet: The hydraulic tappet maintains constant contact with the camshaft, operating without any clearance. Inside the tappet, hydraulic pressure is used to adjust the clearance. The hydraulic tappet mainly consists of a plunger, a check valve, and a check valve spring. It stores or releases engine oil through the action of the check valve, and by altering the oil pressure within the tappet chamber, the working length of the hydraulic tappet can be adjusted, thereby automatically regulating the valve clearance. 2. Valve Tappet Cleaning Interval: The cleaning interval depends on various factors, such as the vehicle's driving environment, the control method of the fuel-injected engine, and air quality. Generally, cleaning is required every 20,000 to 30,000 kilometers. If the vehicle operates in a heavily polluted environment (mainly referring to inhalable particulate matter), impurities can quickly accumulate on the throttle body. Over time, this can affect the engine's air intake, necessitating cleaning. This phenomenon is most noticeable when starting the vehicle.

[MaddoxDella]

I've seen this type of numbering multiple times in engine maintenance. The numbers on valve tappets, such as 342, typically represent the thickness of the shim in micrometers, which is 0.342 millimeters. The valve system requires precise adjustment of the clearance to ensure proper opening and closing of the valves. If the size deviation is too large, it can lead to increased engine noise, unstable power output, and even accelerated wear of components. During maintenance, this number helps in selecting the correct spare parts—you can remove the tappet to measure the existing clearance, then use numbers like 342 to choose a new shim. It's recommended to regularly inspect the valve system, especially in high-mileage vehicles. Checking every 20,000 kilometers can prevent major issues. Ensure cleanliness during operation to avoid dust affecting precision, as these small details directly impact driving smoothness.

[PhoebeAnn]

I encountered a similar situation when repairing my car myself. That time when replacing a part, I noticed the valve tappet was marked with 342, and only then did I realize it indicated the shim thickness, approximately 342 microns. The engine operates based on the opening and closing of valves; if the clearance is too small, it can overheat, and if it's too large, it causes a tapping noise. My car had a strange sound before, and upon checking, it turned out the valve size was incorrect. The mechanic said using the correct part number can save both trouble and money; otherwise, you might have to disassemble it several times. Now I understand the importance of part numbers and make sure to note them down or take photos for reference during maintenance to avoid forgetting details and causing confusion. In daily driving, it's crucial to address any abnormal sounds promptly and not wait until a major repair is needed to regret it. Regular maintenance can extend the engine's lifespan, especially for older cars that require extra attention.

[PeterAnn]

The number 342 on the valve tappet represents dimensions and is directly related to driving safety. It typically serves as a thickness code, and incorrect installation may lead to poor valve sealing, potentially causing engine stalling or overheating. Driving under such conditions poses risks, especially as power loss at high speeds can be dangerous. During maintenance, it's crucial to ensure the matching number or professionally measure the gap value. Expanding on this, valve system maintenance includes regular checks for noise and performance, with immediate stopping if abnormalities are detected. These preventive measures are simple yet effective in avoiding troubles caused by unexpected failures. Maintaining vehicle health is essential.