Moto Guzzi California 1100 (e.g. Vintage) – Checking and Adjusting Valve Clearance

Checking and adjusting valve clearance on a Tonti Guzzi is an easy job. The valves on a California Vintage should be checked every 10.000 km. The engine has to be cold.

The valve clearance on all 1100/1000 California models
(since 1994, frame numbers KC, KD, KG and KH) is:
- Intake valve: 0.10 mm
- Exhaust valve: 0.15 mm

The valve clearance for California II and III models
(frame numbers VT, VW and VY) is:
- Intake valve: 0.22 mm
- Exhaust valve: 0.22 mm

Errors and omissions excepted.


Here is a quote from the MOTO GUZZI WORKSHOP MANUAL:

TAPPET BACKLASH
After the first 500÷1500 km (300÷1000 mi) and after every 10000 km (6000 mi), or when the timing system becomes very noisy, check the backlash between the valves and the equalizers. Adjustment must be carried out when the engine is cold, with the piston at top dead center (T.D.C), in compression stage (valves closed).
Work as follows:
• Remove the head cover “A” by unscrewing the eight screws”B”
• Loosen the nuts “C”;
• Loosen or unscrew the adjustment screw “D” until you obtain the following backlashes:
- Intake valve 0,10 mm;
- Exhaust valve 0,15 mm
This measurement is effected by inserting a feeler gauge “E” between the rocker and the valve. Remeber that if the backlash is greater than the prescribed one, the tappets will be noisy. If it is less, the valves will not close well, thereby causing the following problems:
• Loss of pressure;
• Engine overheating;
• Valve burning-out, etc.