Hey folks I just got bought a 2003 rancher es. I'm changing the oil and checking the lash etc. today and I was hoping someone could give me some tips on checking the lash on this machine, how to confirm TDC what the actual lash specs are, what has to be removed to get to the valves etc. ??

Also what else should I be doing to make sure she's ready for the trails...

Any advise would be most welcome.

 

get a owners manual, is this your first time doing valves. email me maybe i can help im a tech at a honda dealer

 

if you can help that'd be great... I have the owners manual, but it doesn't have any detail on checking the valve lash. I've done it on my yammi just not on the rancher yet.

 

As far as tdc goes..just make sure its the correct one. It needs to be tdc of compression stoke, and not tdc of exhaust stroke. Just wiggle the rockers with your fingers, and both should have play in them. If the exhaust valve is tight and wont wiggle, you might be on the wrong tdc.
Theres a small access hole, by the stator cover, and the marks will be in there. I dont even bother with looking anymore. Just remove the spark plug, so the motor turns over easier, and once the rocker cover is off...slowly pull the motor over with the rope. When the rockers are all the way up, and the tension is off, (closed) they can be adjusted, theres no need to be on the tdc mark.
Gas tank will need to be moved out of the way, and as long as youre doing that, adding an inline fuel filter at this time is easy.
Check engine oil level and the differential fluid in the front and back, charge up the battery, and youll be good to go.
Ebay is a good place for cheap service manuals