Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Valves, valve clearance, rule of thumb


Question
I wish to check the settings for intake and exhaust valve clearance on a 8 H P Tecumseh Model HM80.  Do you know where I can find the settings?  Tecumseh site doesn't reveal them.

Answer
As a general rule of thumb, I use 0.006" clearance on the intake and 0.010" on the exhaust (because it expands more due to hotter temperature).  If you are picky (and I wouldn't blame you either), you will have to visitor a dealer with your model numbers and ask for the clearances (hint:  they are usually on a small piece of paper in the box with a new valve).  Hope this helps.