finally got around to timing my daughters phoenix. if I put the bike to TDC I have barely .001 clearance (recommended is .003"), but If I check intake while the exhaust is opening I have .003", or if I check the intake while the exhaust is opening I get .003"? what gives?

 

Two ways of checking tdc plus can show if a timing chain could have possibly slipped. Main thing is a tdc both lobes should be pointing down. Plus the easiest way to get to tdc without worrying about "strokes" is slowly turn the engine,watch the intake rocker arm go down and when it starts to come back up,slowly turn until the tdc on the flywheel mark aligns with the case pointer. At that point both sprocket marks should be parallel with the case and cam lobes should be pointing down.

 

Yes, at this point both valves are tight, but it i keep going i eventually get clearance as the opposite valve starts to open? Cam worn a bit? Manual doesnt mention checking at tdc, but its how ive always done things

 

Always check/adjust valve clearances at tdc.This is the point that the least pressure is on the rocker arms.If both valves clearances are tight,adjust to specs. I wouldn't worry about what clearances are as you turn the crank past tdc.

 

its all fixed up now, hopefully can test out a long run shortly, and see if this was the cause of the top end miss. Thanks for help