Here's a general outline of the procedure. Always refer to a 1961 Ford Falcon shop manual for the precise specifications and torque values for your specific engine. The manual will have diagrams and detailed instructions specific to your model.
Tools You'll Need:
* Shop manual: Absolutely essential!
* Valve adjustment wrench: Specifically sized for your engine's valve adjusters (usually a feeler gauge and a wrench)
* Feeler gauges: A set to check valve clearances.
* Socket wrench set: For removing the valve cover and other components as needed.
* Wrench for distributor: To make sure the distributor is not moved during the process
* Pry bar or screwdriver: (sometimes needed for stubborn rocker arms)
* Clean rags: To keep things clean.
* Jack and jack stands (or ramps): To safely lift the vehicle.
Procedure:
1. Preparation:
* Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
* Support the vehicle securely on jack stands.
* Locate the valve cover.
* Drain any oil from the engine to avoid oil spills.
2. Remove the Valve Cover: Remove the valve cover bolts carefully, keeping track of their location and order. Clean the valve cover gasket surface.
3. Identify Cylinder Firing Order: Your shop manual will show the firing order for your specific engine. This is crucial for knowing which cylinders are at top dead center (TDC) during the adjustment process.
4. Rotate the Engine to TDC: Using a wrench on the crankshaft pulley or a socket on the harmonic balancer bolt, rotate the engine until the piston in the appropriate cylinder is at TDC on the compression stroke. This is usually identified by aligning timing marks on the crankshaft pulley and the timing cover. Your shop manual will detail how to determine TDC for each cylinder.
5. Check and Adjust Valve Lash (Clearance):
* For each cylinder, you'll need to check and adjust both the intake and exhaust valve clearances. Your shop manual will specify the correct clearance (usually measured in thousandths of an inch).
* Using the feeler gauge: Insert the appropriate feeler gauge between the valve stem and the rocker arm. The gauge should slide with slight resistance. If the gap is too large, you'll need to tighten the adjuster; if it's too small, loosen it.
* Adjusting: Use the valve adjusting wrench to tighten or loosen the adjuster until the correct feeler gauge slides with that slight resistance. Never force anything.
* Repeat: Repeat this process for every valve on every cylinder, following the firing order.
6. Reinstall the Valve Cover: Clean the valve cover gasket surface and install a new gasket if necessary. Carefully tighten the valve cover bolts to the torque specifications in your shop manual.
7. Check Oil Level: After reassembling everything, check the oil level and add oil if needed.
8. Start the Engine: Carefully start the engine and listen for any unusual noises. If you hear ticking or other problems, recheck your valve adjustments.
Important Notes:
* Torque Specifications: Always follow the torque specifications in your shop manual. Over-tightening can damage the engine.
* Safety First: Always work in a well-ventilated area. Use jack stands properly to avoid injury.
* Professional Help: If you're not comfortable performing this procedure, take your car to a qualified mechanic. Improper valve adjustment can cause serious engine damage.
Remember, this is a simplified overview. Your shop manual is your bible for this job. It contains the precise specifications, diagrams, and torque values necessary for properly adjusting the valves on your 1961 Ford Falcon six-cylinder engine. Without it, you risk damaging your engine.
