Service question - valve shim adj frequency

[Zippee]

Quick question really, my 350 is due a service in June - this time due to 12 months being up rather than mileage (covered 4k since the last). My last service was a full 12k with shim check and in that case minimal adjustment required.
Due to the fact it's 12 months since the last I'll be going for a full fluid change (so 12k service) rather than the 6k but will I need the shims checking again? I've heard differing opinions on how often these should be checked and adjusted, with some even going so far as to state that doing so too often can actually be worse for the engine than not at all.
Either way it's going to be an expensive one with a gearbox rebuild also being required....

[sean j g]

just had a 12k service on my sag even though its only done 5k from new also had valve/tappets done and they were way out but they have never been done i think after speaking to the guys at dulfords who did it they wont need doing at next service as i will do around 3k annually so in answer to your question i think you shouldnt need the tappets re-done after 4k but this may not be the opinion of others cheers sean

[KillerJim]

It really depends on how good the servicer is.

I had 12k done in my first and second year of ownership and I was told that there was one shim change in the 2nd 12k service.. and not to waste my money and just get a 6k mile service next time (which was a few months ago now)

[julianc]

I have this done every year to keep the engine as sweet as possible. I think only 3 needed minor adjustment at the last service a couple of weeks ago. I also like the piece of mind of an inspection of the health of the top of the engine every year.

Julian

[S6 ROR]

Am i missing something here, but if you are paying for a 12K service, that automatically includes a check on the valves etc, its only if they need adjusting that you then pay the extra labour charges etc?. Surely for peace of mind it would make sense on having them checked to make sure no deterioration had occurred over the year.

[Zippee]

S6 ROR said:

Am i missing something here, but if you are paying for a 12K service, that automatically includes a check on the valves etc, its only if they need adjusting that you then pay the extra labour charges etc?. Surely for peace of mind it would make sense on having them checked to make sure no deterioration had occurred over the year.

Hi Nigel,

Matt charges £500 for a 12k but the valve check & adjust is on top. I don't mind paying but wanted to see how often others get theirs done.

[Tammy Wynette]

Mines checked every 2 years, only been adjusted once in 6 years, car does 4K to 5K a year

[S6 ROR]

Zippee said:

Hi Nigel,

Matt charges £500 for a 12k but the valve check & adjust is on top. I don't mind paying but wanted to see how often others get theirs done.

Tony, you are indeed right, having just had a quick look back through my invoices, the valve clearance check is an additional charge onto of the normal charge for the 12k service.
I must pay more attention to what i am paying for

[Targarama]

They get rattly and sewing machine-like when they need doing. I would suggest getting them checked every 2 years/12k like TVR suggest, or more often if the engine is getting tappy.

[sean j g]

i agree guys my 12k service did not include tappet settings etc that was on top the engine now sounds a lot quieter and had de-cat at same time cant believe the difference the noise is awesome and the car is much more responsive well happy !!

[the man]

S6 ROR said:

Am i missing something here, but if you are paying for a 12K service, that automatically includes a check on the valves etc, its only if they need adjusting that you then pay the extra labour charges etc?. Surely for peace of mind it would make sense on having them checked to make sure no deterioration had occurred over the year.

Yes you are correct they should be checked as part of the service if the garage is working to the correct service schedule. Any adjustment would be at an additional cost if the correct procedure is being worked too.