how do I adjust the valves?

[Jso123]

Is there a you tube video or idiots guide? I've never done it before and guess it might be the reason I get some engine stutter above 8,000 RPM. Everything else on the bike is pretty solid and I've been procrastinating for too long. I don't spend too much time at those high RPMs, but sometimes it is fun!

 

[Lego]

Here you can find how to adjust valves and many more!
http://www.xs400.com/forum/showthread.php?t=10715

video how to thread made by Will
http://www.xs400.com/forum/showthread.php?t=12330

look on youtube for videos how to adjust valves in general (there is some for XS650) than with manual on previous link you can proceed its not so hard, but you have to be precise

but i think you have to tinker with carbs, if you have problems on specific RPM range.

 

[Jso123]

Thanks a lot! Perhaps I'll try and balance the carbs first as that does not seem too intimidating. Then may be I wont need to mess with the valves.

 

[Sesty]

its not tooo much work to just check the clearances.... you will need to sync again if you make any adjustments anyway.

 

[jthiessen]

its not tooo much work to just check the clearances.... you will need to sync again if you make any adjustments anyway.

Yup, you would be doubling your work if you sync first.

Setting valve clearances is pretty intimidating, but read those links above - a lot of first timers (I am one of them) have chimed in with concern but if you are prepared and semi-understand the procedure you'll be fine.

Plus, there is something rewarding about setting valve clearances and starting the bike up for the first time and hearing that sweet sweet clicking sound!

 

[jthiessen]

This thread is great to read over before jumping in:
http://www.xs400.com/forum/showthread.php?t=7170

 

[JaredK]

Jso, it looks like you've got a DOHC, which is a bit more involved than the SOHC for adjusting valves. I was about to do this on the weekend but the weather was too nice and I decided to go for a ride instead

This post gives specific instructions for the DOHC:
http://www.xs400.com/forum/showpost.php?p=104490&postcount=7

And the manual has a good section on adjusting valves, with pictures.

Good luck!

 

[XSLeo]

There is a proper set of steps to do a tune up. They are
#1 adjust timing chain
#2 adjust valves
#3 if points set gap and timing, TCI just check timing.
#4 Carbs.
You have to do the mechanical first then electrical then fuel. Doing them out of step means you will have to redo the steps you did out of step.
Leo

 

[surley_old_guy]

Checked out the post linked by Lego this morning then went for it. Very smooth process with good documentation. Plus it seemed to intimidate the hell out of my neighbor who pays someone to do the brakes on his pickup.
On the test ride noticed much better power across all engine speeds, but much higher idle than usual. Is this a normal side effect? Should I just turn down the idle screw?

 

[JaredK]

Did you sync the carbs afterwards? If they're out of sync after the valve adjustment that could throw off your idle speed.

 

[Scorpio1963]

Not to hijack but Im adjusting my valves on bike today also.Its been a few years since I done this and from reading threads on the sohoc bike once you are on the compression stroke your adjust both valves on the left side and repeat procedure except use rt to do the right side?

 

[Scorpio1963]

Nevermind got it figured out it came back to me

 

[surley_old_guy]

Carbs are now synced. Thanks for the tip. Had to turn the idle screw way down afterward. Nice burn on the back of my hand from adjusting it at red lights.