Piston Valve Clearance Calculator
The LRFIX Piston Valve Clearance Calculator determines the clearance between the piston and valve to avoid interference.
How to Use This Piston Valve Clearance Calculator
- Enter Values: Input the piston diameter, cylinder bore, piston-to-wall clearance, and valve diameter.
- Calculate: Click "Calculate" to get the valve clearance.
Formula: Valve Clearance=(D+C)−(P+V)
- D = Piston Diameter
- C = Cylinder Bore
- P = Piston-to-Wall Clearance
- V = Valve Diameter
FAQ
The generally accepted minimum for piston to valve clearance is 0.080 inches (2 mm), but this can vary based on your engine's specifications, so always consult the manufacturer's guidelines.
For a power valve, aim for a clearance of at least 0.100 inches (2.5 mm) to ensure there is no contact during operation. Check your engine manual for exact requirements.
To measure radial clearance, first measure the diameter of the valve stem and the inner diameter of the valve guide. Subtract the valve stem diameter from the valve guide diameter to find the radial clearance.
For racing applications, it is recommended to have a minimum piston to valve clearance of 0.100 inches (2.5 mm) to prevent potential damage during high RPMs.
You will need a caliper for precise measurements, feeler gauges to check gaps, and a dial indicator for measuring movement during the calculations.
