Is there a trick to this? The FSM outlines a procedure using special tools that I don't have. I have the timing chain and inner timing cover on and the cams are in (obviously). I don't have a lot of time to work on the engine as it is, and would prefer not to backtrack. Does anyone have any tips?

 

So no one adjusts lash after changing cams, or does everyone adjust lash before installing the heads?

This is on the 3.0, remember, and that engine uses spacers on top of the buckets for adjustment.

 

You can adjust the lash with the heads on or off the motor. Yes, you should adjust it after changing cams because your old cams will be different.

 

The dumb move I made was to seal up the first cam bracket and inner timing chain cover before adjusting the lash. I thought I would be able to change the shims with the cams bolted down, but it became apparent that was not an option.

Once I get all my needed shims, I will reassemble without sealing to check the lash because I'm a little concerned about the valves hitting the pistons now that the head is on the block so I need to put on the timing chains to ensure no interference.

I should have adjusted the lash with the head on the bench, and then I wouldn't have had this problem.