Valve clearance

[david2001]

My 100 series is running ok and I’m wondering if I should reset the valve clearances at 212k miles?
I have no history on this car and I do think there is a mild valve clearance rattle ( however I have no experience with diesel engines this being my first project!)
Should I go ahead and adjust or leave? In othe words what does a valve rattle sound like?
Thanks
david

 

[Towpack]

Valve rattle or tappet noise varies from engine to engine but is usually a light ticking or tapping noise from the valve cover. Tappet noise from clearances just out of spec is better than tight or non existent valve gaps which can lead to burnt valves but why not check them anyway? If it's the 1HD-FTE diesel it should be a similar job to the 1HD-FT in the last 80 series but I can't speak for the petrol V8 engine.

 

[david2001]

Thank you !
I was looking for encouragement to do it any way
I’ll record the noise once engine warms up on my iPhone but don’t know how to post such things such recordings onto the posts here
David

 

[david2001]

I’m having trouble seeing the timing marks with all the belts etc obstructing! I can see the marks but awkward angle ! Must I remove cowling and fan etc or is there other tricks to be sure I’m on Tdc for number one piston?im assuming once aligned and the six are done all I have to do is turn engine 360 degrees….
David

 

[Ben Stratford]

I use a small mirror which is extendable on like a car aerial type of thing. You can angle it to see down into all sorts of crevices.

 

[david2001]

Great idea …I’ll hunt in my wife’s stuff
When lined up the marks confirm both tdc and that’s on compression stroke.?