Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): valve adjustment, dowel rod, compression stroke

Question
Ben
   setting the valve lash , Im i right too think that after the exhaust valve compresses and the piston comes back up to top dead center is it at this point that i set the valve lash on this v-twin

Answer
maurice

Setting the valve lash is done on the compression stroke,We allow just a little bit just past TDC
Some engines have a compression release that is why we go past TDC

This should apply to a four stroke mower engine the same as an automobile engine. The piston will come to the top of the cylinder twice, once at the exaust stroke and once at the compression stroke. I figgure you want to find TDC at the compression stroke. With the plug out and while rotating the engine, put your finger in the empty spark plug hole. On the compression stroke air will be forced out and you can feel it. If it is a twin you will need to know which is the #1 cylinder. If it has visible rocker arms you can watch them as well. The dowel rod is a good technique to determine exact TDC. Also be sure to rotate in the correct direction