Valve Guide Inner Diameter

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 Mercury Mountaineer, 2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac, and 2009 Ford Explorer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Refer to the appropriate ENGINE - 4.0L SOHC or ENGINE - 4.6L (3V) .

NOTE: Valve guides tend to wear in an hourglass pattern. The ball gauge can be inserted into the combustion chamber side of the valve guide, if necessary.

Use a ball gauge to determine the inside diameter of the valve guides in 2 directions at the top, middle and bottom of the valve guide.

Fig 1: Measuring Valve Guide Inner Diameter

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Measure the ball gauge with a micrometer.

Fig 2: Measuring Ball Gauge With Micrometer

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

If the valve guide is not within specifications, install a new cylinder head assembly.