What is valve lead?

Valve lead refers to the amount of time that the intake and exhaust valves are open relative to the piston's position. It is expressed in degrees of crankshaft rotation.

The valve lead is important for ensuring that the engine performs efficiently and smoothly. If the valve lead is too small, the valves will not open wide enough to allow sufficient air and fuel to enter and exit the cylinder, resulting in a loss of power and efficiency. If the valve lead is too large, the valves will stay open for too long, causing the engine to run rough and waste fuel.

The valve lead is typically set by the engine manufacturer and is specified in the engine's service manual. It can be adjusted by changing the length of the pushrods or rocker arms that actuate the valves.

Here is a more detailed explanation of valve lead:

* The intake valve opens before the piston reaches the top of its compression stroke. This allows air and fuel to enter the cylinder.

* The exhaust valve opens after the piston has reached the bottom of its exhaust stroke. This allows exhaust gases to exit the cylinder.

* The amount of time that the intake and exhaust valves are open is determined by the valve lead.

* If the valve lead is too small, the valves will not open wide enough to allow sufficient air and fuel to enter and exit the cylinder. This will result in a loss of power and efficiency.

* If the valve lead is too large, the valves will stay open for too long, causing the engine to run rough and waste fuel.

* The valve lead is typically set by the engine manufacturer and is specified in the engine's service manual. It can be adjusted by changing the length of the pushrods or rocker arms that actuate the valves.

Valve lead is an important part of engine design and performance. By setting the valve lead correctly, you can ensure that your engine runs efficiently and smoothly.