does the tappet clearence really need checking

I was wondering if the tappet clearance really needed checking, i'm about to do the 14500 service myself and the tappets look like a bit of a hassle.

I have read other members saying that when they check there clearnces they have never been off the specicfiaction

I also have been told that when the tappets are off you can hear that the engine is making a funny noise and its time to get it checked out

cheers

checking tappets is VERY easy! and necessary! (especially when your engine is this young, when everything is still seating and such. older engines MIGHT stay within spec a little longer...)

The most difficult part is taking off the bodywork (if any) and watercooler.

checking the tappets literally takes 5 minutes, if everything is clear, close the valve covers and you're done, and if you do have to swap shims, it only takes about one hour at the most (not including the trip to the dealer for shims )

don't do a half job, you'll be pleased when you've checked the tappets, and know that everything is within spec

I was talking to a mechanic the other day as mine is coming due for its service soon and he said that he very rarely needs to adjust any Suzuki, as they use a better material compared to the other Japanese manufacturers. Dunno if this is true or not

Originally Posted by Longshotmojo

I was talking to a mechanic the other day as mine is coming due for its service soon and he said that he very rarely needs to adjust any Suzuki, as they use a better material compared to the other Japanese manufacturers. Dunno if this is true or not

I would have had to ask him what this better material was that Suzuki uses. Also, I'd have asked him at what mileage the average SV engines requires valve adjustment/shimming.
Some Yamaha engines have there first service at 26,000 miles in regards to valve train shimming.
Its always best to check the valve tappet clearances in accordance with Suzuki recommeded mileage intervals.