im trying to adjust the valves on my 300ex.when i put it on tdc the exhaust side is loose but the intake side stays tight.the book says that both of them need to be loose to adjust them right..??? or am i missing something..?? i've never done this before..help..

 

If both valves are not loose make sure you go one more revolution.Usually both valves do not open at the same time.What you are considering "loose" also is what the motor shows as both valves closed.Your valve lash adjustment is on the top so the only way to consider it loose is if the valves are both closed at TDC.I suggest one more revolution after only one has become loose and at that point you should be able to adjust both valves as the book is guiding you.Did you change your valves? Is this why you are adjusting them? Also the engine should be warmed up and double checked.As the heat is brought into the engine the lash will change.