Contents: Preliminary adjustment ↧ Basic adjustment ↧
Note: Before performing any operation that requires disconnecting the battery on vehicles equipped with the Delco Loc II audio system, ensure that the locking feature is disabled.
The term "adjustment" is used here to refer to a combination of individual operations rather than to any one specific procedure. If, while the vehicle is new, the maintenance schedule is carefully followed and proper checks are performed frequently as suggested in this manual, the engine will be maintained in good condition and the need for additional adjustments will be minimal.
When operating a used vehicle, in addition to the specified intervals for regular maintenance, additional engine adjustment operations will most likely be required.
The first step in any adjustment or diagnostic procedure is to check the compression in the cylinders (see chapter 2), which will help determine the condition of the internal engine parts. To carry it out, special equipment is required. If, for example, a compression test reveals severe internal engine wear, a simple adjustment will not improve engine performance.
Below is a list of procedures that are most often needed to bring a poorly running engine back to normal.
Preliminary adjustment
- Check all engine related fluids (section 4)
- Clean, inspect and test the battery (section 8)
- Check and adjust the tension of the drive belts (section 21)
- Replace spark plugs (section 32)
- Check the wires going to the spark plugs (section 33)
- Check the crankcase ventilation valve (section 30)
- Check the air filter (section 19)
- Check the engine cooling system (section 9)
- Check all underhood hoses (section 10)
Basic adjustment
Complete all the steps above, plus:
- Check the exhaust gas recirculation system (chapter 6)
- Check the ignition timing (section 34)
- Check the battery charging circuit (chapter 5)
- Check the fuel system (section 18)
- Replace the air filter (section 19)
- Replace the wires going to the spark plugs (section 33)