How to Adjust the Valves on My Triumph Spitfire
by Michelle Schaefer
The Triumph Spitfire is a classic British sports car that requires regular tune ups and adjustments to maintain peak performance. Part of a comprehensive maintenance schedule includes routine valve adjustments every six months or 6,000 miles. A valve adjustment is a simple maintenance procedure well within the abilities of the average weekend mechanic. Spitfires are, by design, very easy to work on with the right information and a few simple tools.
Step 1
Apply the parking brake, shift the car into neutral and chock the wheels.
Step 2
Remove the spark plugs, valve cover and valve cover gasket.
Step 3
Number the rocker arms and valves from #1 to #8, starting at the front of the engine.
Step 4
Rotate the engine with a 1 13/16-inch socket and 3/4-inch breaker bar until the #1 valve is fully open and just starting to close. Adjust the #8 valve to .010 clearance with a 1/2-inch wrench and screwdriver.
Step 5
Rotate the engine with the 1 13/16-inch socket and 3/4-inch breaker bar until the #2 valve is fully open and just starting to close. Adjust the #7 valve to .010 clearance.
Step 6
Adjust the valves from front to rear using the "rule of nines." The "rule of nines" is: 9 - (# of the valve fully compressed) = the # of the valve to adjust. For example, when valve #3 is in position, it is time to adjust valve #6 (9 - 3 = 6).
Step 7
Repeat Step 6 until all valves have been adjusted. Replace the spark plugs, valve cover and valve cover gasket.
References
- "Triumph Spitfire Mk.1, 2, 3, 4 & 1500 1962-1981 Owner's Workshop Manual (Service & Repair Manuals)"; Peter G. Strasman and John H. Haynes; 2002
- "Complete Official Triumph Spitfire 1500, Model Years 1975-1980: Comprising the Official Driver's Handbook and Workshop Manual"; British Leyland; 1980
Tips
- Petroleum jelly can be used as a gasket compound so that you can reuse the valve cover gasket several times before replacing it.
- Use a fender cover or blanket to protect the car's finish when working on the engine.
Things You'll Need
- Wheel chocks
- Metric socket set
- 1 13/16-inch socket
- 3/4-inch breaker bar
- 1/2-inch combination wrench
- Flat head screwdriver
- Valve cover gasket
Warnings
- Always rotate the engine clockwise. Rotating the motor counterclockwise will result in inaccurate valve adjustments.
Writer Bio
Michelle Schaefer began writing in 1998 for "The Pennsylvania Homeschooler" with advice for parents educating their handicapped children at home. She earned a bachelor's degree in education from Kutztown University in 1991.
