[SpudRider]

The engineers set the valve lash specifications for the engine to make the most power, and run most efficiently. If you set the valves too loose, you will lose some power. Having said that, it is better for the valve lash to be too loose, rather than too tight.

Everyone has a different technique for closing in on the correct valve lash. After you set the valve lash, it's important to measure it in the correct manner. Keeping the feeler gauge as straight (unbent) as possible, you want to note a slight drag on the gauge as you draw it under the tappet.