measuring valve clearance

[BigKO]

Hello, I am wondering how to measure the valve clearance. I searched, and found where it was in the TSRM, http://www.cygnusx1.net/Supra/Library/TSRM/MK3/manual.aspx?S=EM&P=8
but I do not know what to measure this clearance against. The TSRM is a little vague because it simply states measure the clearance, what am I measuring this against? Like the distance from the valve cap to the cam? Or where? Any help is much appreciated
:1zhelp:

 

[Piratetip]

It is measured with a feeler gauge.

The distance from the base of the cam to the shim.

Compare your measurements against the specifications that you linked to.

 

[BigKO]

Oh ok, thanks... That is what I expected but i wasn't entirely sure. If they need adjustment, which I am sure they will need, is the best/only place to purchase them at a Toyota Dealer?

 

[suprarx7nut]

Either a dealer or junkyard. The shims are the same for almost any Camry(86-91), Celica(83-93), Cressida(88-93), Corolla(83-99), MR2(84-91) or 94-99 Tercel.

Make a trip out to a u-pull junkyard and if you can find a motor of any of those cars intact, take every shim that looks to be in good shape. They generally don't wear terribly and are just as usable as new ones in most cases.

...And a HELL of a lot cheaper.

 

[bozosoku]

The same 25 mm shim is also used in a gazillion Honda CB750 from the 70s/80s, most bike shops have them in stock. At around $6 a piece, it adds up quick if you need to change all 24 valves, so junk yard is the way to go if you need a lot. You may be able to swap shim between valves to get them inside spec. Some dealers will let you trade shims if you ask nicely.

 

[GrimJack]

A Honda 750? I know it's the same as the Yamaha shims, but I've never heard of a Honda...

PS: The Yamaha dealership sells 'em for about 1/3 the price of the Toyota dealership last I checked.

 

[lepad_ae86]

I got some shim if you need, PM me.

 

[isnms]

A spreadsheet that could be helpful
http://www.supramania.com/forums/showthread.php?t=10806

 

[bozosoku]

A Honda 750? I know it's the same as the Yamaha shims, but I've never heard of a Honda...

PS: The Yamaha dealership sells 'em for about 1/3 the price of the Toyota dealership last I checked.

Yeap...the CB750/CB900 engine family uses the same shim, verified with Honda Microfiche.

 

[grimreaper]

got mine at a honda shop...

pull the cams, makes it quick and easy!

 

[Piratetip]

Good info for sourcing these shims guys!
Should there be a sticky made in the engine section?

 

[indirocz28]

Good info here guys. Thank you for the knowledge and the search bar!