valve to lifter setting?

[FRANK PKNY]

Setting valves on a 1916 T the langs book says .022 to .032 seems rather excessive? What do you guys generaly set the valves at? Thanks Frank pkny

 

[redmodelt]

Depends on if you are using adjustable or solid lifters. Is your cam new, reground or used?
Used cam and solid lifters= piston travel method
Used cam and adjustable lifters= piston travel method
New or reground cam and adjustable lifters= .010 intake and .012 exhaust. I have seen references of using up to .016 for both the intake and exhaust.
The lobs on the original cams were not indexed too well and there were small differences in the the location of the holes for the wrist pins (piston and rod) and crank journals. That is why you use the travel method with the older parts, to get the valves to all open at the same point on all the cylinders.
If you don't have a copy of the Ford Service Manuel or the MTFCA engine book you might think about getting copies. The major and some minor T parts suppliers should have them in stock.

 

[redmodelt]

PS; If you are using the original 2 piece valves I would recommended replacing them. The heads a known to come off causing bad results. The original solid lifters if old, get cupped on the top and there is no way to use a feller gauge to set the gap.

 

[FRANK PKNY]

The valves were replace not to long ago about 100 miles by the previous owner. There are solid old lifters in her and a old cam. Aluminum pistons rebabbited rods and rear main cap. Tightened all the rods and caps. and put in helical timing gears with a thrust washer kit installed new. Don't have any extra money for a new cam and adjustable lifters. Have never set up the valves by piston travel, guess I'll have to learn. I do have the ford service manual at home and think the infomation is in it.

 

[redmodelt]

I have only done it twice in the last 6 months. I does take a little time but the book guides you through the process. Best if you leave the valve springs off when you do the job.
MarkG