Greetings all-

For those of you keeping score at home, I need to adjust the valves on my brick because they are probably very much out of spec. The symptoms are that they are really loud, and a loss of power. Here is what it sounds like now:

http://www.geocities.com/aanippl/volvoknock.wav

Actually, the sound has gotten a bit worse. With the help of Art near Baltimore, I decided that I need to adjust my shims. I was talking with the Mrs last night, and we decided that I "might as well" buy a VX cam (not relation to WMD) and put it in. While I am there, I am going to replace the timing belt, tensioner, and the gasket ring for the camshaft.

I have read some of the info re: this procedure here, at other web sites, my green books, and Chilton. Despite all of my research, I still have a few questions. BTW, I don't want to take the head off.

1. I don't need the spring presser if I am going to replace the camshaft. Correct?

2. Once camshaft is off, I can pull the shims and buckets. Would it be worth my time to replace the hushers or does the head need to be off for that?

I am sure I'll have more questions once I get some responses, and any elaboration on the above questions will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks-

Joe HC
--
1977 244 160k (?), 1988 245 214k (soon to be dismissed), 1990 244 102k, 1978 Fiat 124 Spyder (restoring)