I'm about to adjust my valve clearences for the first time. Lots of good "how to" stuff around but what isn't clear to me is which way to move the bail? I've a type 4 engine and there's not much room between the heat exchanger and the cover so I would prise it up. Is there a right and wrong way or doesn't it matter??
A new debate!! Im going UP! also these can get stiff if not done for a while - whack some penetrating oil (WD) or similar where they hinge on the head. I use crowbar. Not cos its difficult but because its the right shape and my covers were a bit rusty. (painted them now).
There you go, cause I go down!. As you've said there is not much room and the cover comes out by the bail easier if my bail is down, and a large screw driver of crow bar is in order.
Whichever way it moves easiest then. Tin can be a bit close at the top on some engines. Not sure why they might be different but they are!
I'm a down man myself. Also when you come to put them back look for the VW logo on the inside. I always fit it upside down. Seems to seal better that way, but no idea why.
I'm an up man. And yes, logo upside down to prevent leaks. Put a new cork gasket on dry. Don't use any form of sealant. If you've got easy to move bails try taking them off and giving them a gentle bend
Thanks guys that's a real help So, as it looks like it doesn't matter, I'll follow the "whichever way it moves the easiest"
Well, speaking now from experience, the answer is down! On a 2ltr Type 4 CJ engine, if you go up the bail doesn't clear the cover and gets stuck. Done now and happy to learn that my _ no compression on pot 4 _ is a tight valve!!! Well fingers crossed as I haven't compression tested again yet. Next question gap at .004 or .006
Definitely down. Oh! It's too late! You've already done it. I'll try to get my answer in early for the next question. Answer: Never try and take the plugs out of a hot engine, always wait until its cold.
Just to add an extra factor to the debate. The bail springs are not symmetrical in the vertical plane and can I think be fitted either way round so they bend upwards or downwards I imagine this decides which way is easiest.
Ah, good point! Mine have been installed with the centre bow upwards which is why it fouls. No idea what the factory do / did but it might work the other way around.
And you go up to remove them. Mine are fitted the other way and I go down, so based on a sample of 2 whichever way you have the central bend pointing is the opposite direction to which you pull off. Unless anybody knows different.
