Cylinder Head Rocker Arm and Shaft Inspection
  1. Measure the diameter of the shaft at the first rocker location.
  1. Zero the gauge (A) to the shaft diameter.
  1. Measure the inside diameter of the rocker arm, and check it for an out-of-round condition.
    Rocker Arm-to-Shaft Clearance
    Standard (New):
    Intake:
    0.018−0.059 mm (0.0007−0.0023 in.)
    Exhaust:
    0.018−0.056 mm (0.0007−0.0022 in.)
    Service Limit:
    0.08 mm (0.003 in.)

  1. Repeat for all rocker arms and both shafts. If the clearance is beyond the service limit, replace the rocker shaft and all out of service limit rocker arms. If any VTEC rocker arm needs replacement, replace the rocker arms (primary, mid, and secondary), as a set.
  1. Inspect the rocker arm pistons (A). Push on each piston manually. If it does not move smoothly, replace the rocker arm set.
    NOTE: Apply new engine oil to the rocker arm pistons when reassembling.