Motorcycle Repair: valve/tappet adjustment, honda xl350, feeler gauge

Question
Hi Terry, I have a low mileage,(3100 miles), 1975 Honda XL350, there seems to be quite a bit of noise (clicking and clattering)on the valve train, I know there is supposed to be some noise but I wonder if you can tell me how to check it out, I really don't dare drive it w/o checking it first, thanks, Tim

Answer
Tim,Pull the round access covers off the top of the valve cover. Pull the plug cover off the croankshaft and pull the spark plug this will help in turning the engine over. Use a socket on the bolt on the crank and turn engine over and set piston at TDC the tinig mark should be on TDC by the flywheel. Take a feeler gauge and check the gap between the valve stem and the rocker arm. Try about .003" on both intake and exhaust this should help eliminate valve lash noise. Oh by the way the engine has to be cold.