2.3L Engine (VIN Z)

CAUTION: Severe engine damage may occur if engine is rotated in counterclockwise direction.

CAUTION: Tappets are location-specific. Use a permanent type marker to note tappet locations. DO NOT scratch or use paint to mark tappets, or incorrect lash adjustments and/or severe engine damage may result.

NOTE: Selective sized tappets are used to adjust valve clearance.

Disconnect battery ground cable. Disconnect CMP sensor, CHT sensor and ignition coil connectors. Remove ignition coils by pulling coils straight up while rotating. Disconnect breather tube from valve cover. Disconnect wiring harness retainers from valve cover studs move harness aside. Detach fuel injector supply manifold wiring harness from valve cover. Remove valve cover bolts and remove valve cover.

Measure each valve's clearance at base circle, with lobe pointed away from tappet, before removing camshafts. See Fig 1. Failure to measure all clearances prior to removing camshafts will nessitate repeated removal and installation of camshafts. Use feeler gauge to measure each valve's clearance and record its location. For valve clearance specifications, see VALVE CLEARANCE SPECIFICATION (2.3L - VIN Z) table.

VALVE CLEARANCE SPECIFICATION (2.3L - VIN Z) ⁽¹⁾

Application

In. (mm)

Intake

.008-.011 (0.20-0.28)

Exhaust

.010-.013 (0.25-0.33)

⁽¹⁾	Clearance is checked with engine cold.

NOTE: Number on valve tappet only reflects digits that follow decimal. For example, a tappet with number 0.650 has a thickness of 3.650 mm.

A midrange clearance is most desirable. Select tappets for valves out of specification using the formula: tappet thickness = measured + base tappet thickness - most desirable thickness.
To install new tappets, timing chain and camshafts need to be removed. See appropriate article in ENGINES for timing chain and camshaft removal procedures.

Fig 1: Checking Valve Clearance

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.