Q: Type of feeler gauge to use for 617A valve adjustment - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

mikeyfev1 · #1 04-28-2011, 11:47 PM

All,

I am preparing for my next valve adjustment and was wondering about my feeler gauge. Its not easy to find a feeler gauge that is not a "go/no go" type feeler gauge. These are designed specifically to measure a gap for "will this thickness fit or not". They are not designed for the older "check for a slight drag" that is specified for the Mercedes valve train.

So is it OK to use one of these types of feeler gauges to set my Mercedes valve lash?

Skippy · #2 04-28-2011, 11:58 PM

Huh? I found these on the internet in about three seconds:

http://www.easterngage.com/standard-feeler-gage-sets.asp

I've never actually had to go shopping for feeler gauges though, since I "borrowed" a set from my dad around 1994 and haven't returned them yet. This is also how I got my favorite cast iron frying pan.

mikeyfev1 · #3 04-29-2011, 12:01 AM

Yes, I know they are available. But not in the chain stores. And I already have 3 sets (of go/no-go), so I'd like to know if they are OK to use.

tangofox007 · #4 04-29-2011, 12:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mikeyfev1

I already have 3 sets (of go/no-go), so I'd like to know if they are OK to use.

Just ignore the "no go" portion.

leathermang · #5 04-29-2011, 12:11 AM

Do you have a Sears in Houston , Texas ?

http://www.sears.com/shc/s/search_10153_12605?vName=Tools&keyword=feeler+gauge&viewItems=25&sLevel=0

vstech · #6 04-29-2011, 12:13 AM

I don't understand the difference.
can someone explain gng/drag style?
a feeler gauge is the same in my book...

tangofox007 · #7 04-29-2011, 12:19 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by vstech

I don't understand the difference.

The blade is stepped up to a higher thickness, typically .0002 over the thinner portion.

Quote:

Originally Posted by vstech

a feeler gauge is the same in my book...

What book would that be?

Skippy · #8 04-29-2011, 12:26 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tangofox007

The blade is stepped up to a higher thickness, typically .0002 over the thinner portion.

Oh, that's it? Should be fine then. The only go-no-go gauge I'm at all familiar with is a specialty tool used for checking headspace and timing on the M2 HB.

vstech · #9 04-29-2011, 12:30 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tangofox007

The blade is stepped up to a higher thickness, typically .0002 over the thinner portion.

Cool. I was unaware of this tool.

Quote:

Originally Posted by tangofox007

What book would that be?

that would be the "john memory of tools book" kinda out of print, and quite fallible...

leathermang · #10 04-29-2011, 12:47 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by vstech

that would be the "john memory of tools book"...

And you only Skimmed it at that !! LOL

Stretch · #11 04-29-2011, 05:24 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by vstech

...

that would be the "john memory of tools book" kinda out of print, and quite fallible...

I bet it is a nice read though - you should type it up sometime

vstech · #12 04-29-2011, 09:04 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Army

I bet it is a nice read though - you should type it up sometime

if the order for the book ever tops 10 buyers...

layback40 · #13 04-29-2011, 10:55 AM

I have always used standard feeler gauges & used a go-no go method for setting.
Just make sure 1 thou under slips through easy & 1 thou over dont go.
Maybe some will say I am wrong, but it has worked well for me for more valve adjustments on my 300D's than I have had birthdays !

Its nice to now drive diesels that dont need valve adjustments all the time !!

Stretch · #14 04-29-2011, 01:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by vstech

if the order for the book ever tops 10 buyers...

OK I'll start the ball rolling - I'll order one - now you can start the "does anyone think this is worthwhile?" thread...

Stretch · #15 04-29-2011, 01:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by layback40

I have always used standard feeler gauges & used a go-no go method for setting.
Just make sure 1 thou under slips through easy & 1 thou over dont go.
Maybe some will say I am wrong, but it has worked well for me for more valve adjustments on my 300SD's than I have had birthdays !

Its nice to now drive diesels that dont need valve adjustments all the time !!

Probably a good idea on an OM617 anyway as I've been told the valves tend to tighten over time