Here are a few reasons why wrong valve clearance can cause a vehicle to stall:
1. Insufficient Valve Opening: If the valve clearance is too tight, the valves may not open adequately, restricting the flow of air and fuel into the cylinders. As a result, the air-fuel mixture becomes too lean, causing misfires or incomplete combustion. This can lead to rough engine running and eventually stalling.
2. Improper Valve Timing: Incorrect valve clearance can disrupt the precise timing of valve opening and closing relative to the piston's movement. This disrupts the combustion process and affects the engine's ability to generate sufficient power. Stalling may occur when the engine can no longer maintain a stable idle or overcome resistance while driving.
3. Overheated Engine: In some cases, wrong valve clearance can contribute to engine overheating. When valves do not open or close properly, the engine operates less efficiently, generating more heat. This excessive heat can strain various engine components, potentially causing the engine to stall as a protective measure to prevent damage.
4. Backfiring: Incorrect valve clearance can also result in backfiring, which occurs when unburned fuel ignites in the exhaust system rather than inside the cylinders. This uncontrolled combustion can create excessive pressure and disrupt engine operation, causing it to stall.
It's important to ensure that valve clearances are set according to the vehicle manufacturer's specifications to maintain optimal engine performance and prevent issues like stalling. Regular maintenance and inspection of the valve train, including valve clearance adjustment, are essential to keep the engine running smoothly.