Volvo Penta 2002 marine diesel valve clearance adjustment

[@boatMatthias]

Thanks for sharing this tutorial. A 2002 owner..

[@karlsitell]

Thanks for your effort. I will do this on my 2003 tomorrow (if I dare). I guess I will need a new gasket.

[@wendellcrim8647]

Always good having a new gasket available. You won't need it if the installed gasket remains in one piece while removing the valve cover. Your 3 cylinder will have max compression at 120 degrees instead of 180 in my 2 cylinder. Have fun.

[@alanmassey8002]

Valves can be set cold. You should be turning the engine over on the crank shaft nut as you are putting strain and wear on the fan belt and alternator bearing. There is also a decompression lever which allows you to turn the engine more easily.

[@wendellcrim8647]

All good points. I was unable to get a wrench on the crank nut. After consulting a Volvo shop, they confirmed there is no decompression lever on the model I have. I searched all over the engine with out finding the lever and began wondering if my eyesite was failing.

[@alanmassey8002]

There is a lever on the engine at the front which you turn that releases the compression so you can turn over engine easily while doing tappets. Would not advise using alternator nut as it could cause belt slippage and also putting strain on the belt.

[@wendellcrim8647]

This model of the 2002 does not have that lever. Even though it is depicted in the manual, I couldn't find it. Called Volvo. They confirmed no decompression lever on this model.

[@marcmartel3088]

Just tried to do it on a 40 year-old Penta 2002. Was able to slide the gauge in the intake valves but not the exhaust valves. They must get looser from wear and tear or do they get tighter?