_Tools required_:
- 8mm wrench
- 10mm wrench
- 12mm socket
- 14mm socket
- A long skinny-bladed flat-head screwdriver
- A set of feeler gauges
- Spark plug socket
- Gasket scraper
_Parts needed_:
- New valve cover gaskets
_Adjusting valve clearances on your 2001 VT750 Honda Shadow is fairly easy and can be done in about an hour._
1. Begin by removing the spark plugs using a spark plug socket.
2. Remove the valve cover by taking out the four 8mm bolts that secure it in place.
3. Turn the engine’s crankshaft until both marks on the camshaft sprockets are aligned with their respective marks on the cylinder head:
* The two camshaft marks should point directly at each other.
* There is a round rubber plug just underneath the fuel injector rail to help locate marks on the bottom left portion of the engine (this is where you will use your skinny flat head screwdriver).
4. Use a 14mm socket to loosen the lock nuts on the rocker arms. (Do not fully remove these nuts)
5. Now adjust the valve clearances by inserting a feeler gauge between the rocker arm and the valve stem:
* Intake valves should have a clearance of .10mm ± .02mm (or .004in ± .001in).
* Exhaust valves should have a clearance of .12mm ± .02mm (or .005in ± .001in).
6. With the feeler gauge in place, tighten the locknut with a 14mm socket until you feel resistance.
7. Re-check the valve clearance to ensure it is correct. Remember, the cam lobe should be pointing away from the rocker arm.
8. Repeat this process for all four valves, making sure the camshaft is aligned with its marks.
9. Once all four valve clearances are correctly set, replace the valve cover using the new gasket. (Remember to remove any old gasket material or sealant before replacing the gasket.)
10. Re-install the valve cover bolts and spark plugs, starting by tightening the bolts by hand to ensure the gasket is properly seated. Repeat the process for the other three.
11. Use a 12mm socket to tighten the valve cover bolts in an alternating crisscross pattern to 7 ft/lbs (9.7 Nm).
_The next time you adjust your valves, use the previous measurements so you don’t have to turn the crankshaft._
