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Cummins/Onan — Valve Adjustment

Adjustments · Valves

From a Cummins/Onan owner's manual covering: 4B3.9, 4BT 3.9, 4BTA 3.9, 6B5.9, 6BT 5.9, 6BTA5.9, B5.9-160, B5.9-175, B5.9-190, B5.9-210, B5.9-230. Check it applies to your exact model before use.

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Before you start

  • Disengage timing pin after locating TDC to prevent damage.

Procedure

  1. Remove valve cover.
  2. Locate TDC for cylinder No. 1 using engine barring gear and timing pin.
  3. Check/set valves with engine cold below 60°C [140°F]. Intake 0.254 mm [0.010 in]; exhaust 0.508 mm [0.020 in].
  4. Adjust valves per illustration. Tighten locknut and re-measure. Torque 24 N·m [18 ft-lb].
  5. Mark pulley and rotate crankshaft 360 degrees.
  6. Adjust remaining valves. Tighten locknut and re-measure.
  7. Install valve covers; tighten capscrews to 24 N·m [18 ft-lb].

Tools required

Tool links are Amazon searches (affiliate links); manufacturer special tools may only be available from a dealer.

Specs & values

  • Intake 0.254 mm [0.010 in] cold
  • Exhaust 0.508 mm [0.020 in] cold
  • Locknut 24 N·m [18 ft-lb]
  • Valve cover 24 N·m [18 ft-lb]

Source: Cummins/Onan owner's manual. Steps and values are as documented; always cross-check against the official manual and any later revisions for your exact serial number before servicing.

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