Valve Guide Inner Diameter

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 Mercury Milan, 2011 Lincoln MKZ, and 2011 Ford Fusion. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Refer to the appropriate article in ENGINE MECHANICAL - 2.5L (EXCEPT HYBRID) , ENGINE MECHANICAL - 2.5L - (HYBRID) , ENGINE MECHANICAL - 3.0L (4V) or ENGINE MECHANICAL - 3.5L for the specification.

NOTE: Valve guides tend to wear in an hourglass pattern. The ball gauge can be inserted into the combustion chamber side of the valve guide, if necessary.

Fig 1: Measuring Valve Guide Inner Diameter Using Ball Gauge

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Use a ball gauge to determine the inside diameter of the valve guides in 2 directions at the top, middle and bottom of the valve guide.
Measure the ball gauge with a micrometer.

Fig 2: Measuring Ball Gauge Using Micrometer
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
If the valve guide is not within specifications, install a new cylinder head assembly.