I am working with a 2002 Magnum 500 4X4 and would like to check/adjust my valves. Is it necessary to remove the front fenders and gas tank?

 

No you don't have to remove the tank and fenders,but it is easier with the rear of the tank lifted up a little to get to the intake valves better.I just used a large socket to hold the tank up.Smaller hands have no trouble,but big hands like mine needed the room.

 

Thanks Opt. Sure seemed like a lot of work to do what should be a simple regular maintenance task.

 

Valve clearances were one thing that the old 425 and 500 were pretty good about. Intake valves are the ones that most people do have to adjust over time as the valves are a lot softer than the exhaust valves and do cup from wear which decreases clearance. Same can be said for most 4 stroke engines. I've had some 5 or 6 years old that came in for service and clearances were still spot on at .006 intake and exhaust,but every engine is different.