Valve adjustment at 800 hour service for Kioti DK45S

[vtnotch]

My DK45S is due for 800 hour service. I'm able to change fluids and filters myself, but the owners manual states the engine valve clearance should be adjusted at 800 hours and that I should consult my dealer. Adjusting the valves is beyond my DYI skills. I bought the tractor new in 2008 and it's just now coming up on 800 hours so I would describe it as lightly used. Can I safely skip the valve adjustment? Thoughts? Thanks

 

[Cuttingrass]

I have the Bobcat 4045. It is a Daedong 2021 engine. The procedure is described in the service manual is 1 page. I suspect your engine is almost identical.

 

[Roadworthy]

You may be able to skip the valve adjustment but the process is not difficult. You need to remove the valve cover, know the input and output measurement numbers, and rotate the engine for maximum play on each valve in sequence. You'll need a feeler gauge and a couple of wrenches. You can do it in your driveway or carport. Get the manual for the procedure. It's pretty simple.

 

[Tinhack]

You can skip ALL suggested maintenance like grease, oil and filter changes too. But doing so may seriously shorten the life of your tractor. And the cost of repair could be 100x the cost of maintenance. It's certainly up to you.

The cost of adjusting the valves could be no more than the cost of a valve cover gasket if done yourself. The cost of a top-end rebuild could be several $1000's. Your choice.

 

[DK35vince]

I think I went 1200 or 1500 hours before my first valve lash check, valves were still in spec

 

[JoelD]

Thanks all, good info Vance. I’ll likely be checking mine this winter. Did on wife’s crv, wasn’t difficult. Just a bit of patience. Did on my 50cc scooter as well.

 

[vtnotch]

Thanks to all for replies.

 

[Buggs67]

I'm about there so this is relevant.

The issue for me is not DIY or not; it's that the dealer is so backlogged you can drop at machine off with an appointment date (2-3 weeks out) and it will STILL be there for 2+ weeks.

Same for the local mechanics. My Jeep has been in for brake repair for 1 week now.

 

[toukow]

I agree with Roadworthy's and other's comments. Given the hassle of remote dealers, dealer backlogs, etc. you can at least check them yourself to have peace of mind, and plot the correct course of action. Buy a set of the 'Go-No Go feeler gauges' (or simply use a set of regular ones in the same fashion) if you're uncomfortable making the judgement. Coordinate with an oil change for contamination when removing the valve cover. Too tight is the concern for causing damage, too loose (within reason) not an issue, except for efficiency. Compared to 'shim under bucket' on performance motorcycles, these adjustments are super user friendly. For what it's worth, Toukow

https://www.wonkeedonkeetools.co.uk/feeler-gauges/how-do-you-use-a-go-nogo-feeler-gauge