Remove the Honda valve cover(s) from the engine. Adjust the valves. Clean the cylinder head surface where the valve cover gasket contacts it and then clean the valve cover. Install a new valve cover gasket, reinstall the valve cover and tighten the valve cover carefully to the manufacturer's specifications in the proper order.

The importance of correct Honda valve clearances can't be over-stressed, as it can directly effect the performance and life of the engine. If the valve clearances are excessive, then the efficiency of the engine is reduced because the valves open later and close earlier than they were designed to. This condition can cause the engine to be very noisy. If the valve clearances are less than the manufacturer recommends (they are too tight), then, as the engine warms up, normal heat expansion will not allow the valves to completely close. This condition will cause an engine misfire, and, in some cases, cause major engine damage due to a burnt valve and valve seat. Damage to a valve and valve seat is expensive to repair.

Be sure to have your Honda valves adjusted at the factory recommended mileage intervals. This simple procedure will help to prevent premature engine failure and costly repairs, and can help to ensure that your engine is running efficiently and quietly for a long time.