Here's a general outline; *this is NOT a substitute for a factory service manual*. You must obtain a service manual specific to your 1984 Corvette's engine to get the precise specifications and procedures:
1. Preparation:
* Safety First: Disconnect the negative battery terminal. Wear safety glasses and gloves.
* Tools: You'll need a valve adjustment tool (usually a feeler gauge set), a socket set (including those for the rocker arm nuts), a wrench for the distributor hold down, possibly a breaker bar, and a torque wrench.
* Service Manual: Obtain a factory service manual or a reputable repair manual specific to your 1984 Corvette's engine. This manual will provide the exact valve lash specifications (clearance) for your engine, the correct torque specifications for the rocker arm nuts, and detailed diagrams.
* Access: You'll need to access the valve train. This might involve removing parts like the air cleaner, valve covers, and possibly other components. Your service manual will guide you on this.
* Engine Temperature: The engine should be at operating temperature (or slightly cooled) for accurate measurements. This is because the engine parts expand with heat. Your service manual will specify the ideal temperature.
2. Valve Adjustment Procedure (General Steps):
* Locate TDC (Top Dead Center): Use the crankshaft pulley to rotate the engine to the Top Dead Center (TDC) of the #1 cylinder on the compression stroke. This is crucial. Your service manual will explain how to determine TDC for the #1 cylinder and the firing order. Use the distributor to help, ensuring that the rotor is pointing to the correct cylinder.
* Identify Intake and Exhaust Valves: For each cylinder, visually identify which rocker arm operates the intake valve and which operates the exhaust valve.
* Loosen Rocker Arm Nuts: Carefully loosen the rocker arm nut(s) on the valve you are adjusting, but don't remove them completely.
* Check and Adjust Valve Lash (Clearance): Insert the appropriate feeler gauge (as specified in your service manual) between the rocker arm and the valve stem. Adjust the rocker arm nut until you achieve the correct clearance (lash). The manual will state the "cold" or "hot" lash specification, depending on the engine's temperature.
* Tighten Rocker Arm Nuts: Once the correct clearance is achieved, tighten the rocker arm nut to the specified torque (as found in your service manual).
* Repeat: Repeat steps 2-5 for all valves, following the engine's firing order, rotating the crankshaft to the correct TDC for each cylinder as you go.
* Reassembly: Once all valves are adjusted, reinstall any parts you removed to access the valve train, such as the valve covers.
3. Post-Adjustment Check:
* Recheck Valve Lash: After reassembling everything, it's a good idea to recheck your valve lash to make sure nothing has shifted.
* Start Engine: Start the engine and listen for any unusual noises. If you hear ticking or knocking, there might be a problem.
* Test Drive: Take your Corvette for a test drive to ensure everything is working correctly.
Disclaimer: This is a generalized procedure. The specific steps, tools, and torque specifications will vary depending on the exact engine in your 1984 Corvette. Always consult your factory service manual for the correct information. Failure to do so could result in engine damage. If you are unsure about any step, seek professional help.
