Abstract: A method for setting clearance between a tappet screw and a valve wherein the movement of the valve during opening and closing is monitored and used to calculate further linear movement of the tappet screw to provide a desired tappet clearance. In one embodiment, a predetermined imaginary zero point, which falls in a band of linear displacement during closing of the valve, is used to determine a distance the tappet screw must be further moved to provide the desired tappet clearance. In another embodiment, plural valve displacement measurements are taken and the true zero point or valve closed position, and further movement of the tappet screw to provide the desired tappet clearance is determined based upon these plural measurements. In a further embodiment, movement of the valve head is directly monitored and used to set the tappet clearance.

Abstract: A metal forming machine includes a moveable central pillar, a slidable blade assembly mounted to the pillar for reciprocating movement therewith, and a fixed slide plate mounted to a stationary block secured to the pillar. A moveable or slideable blade holder of the blade assembly and having a ramped wall carries a blade or forming element mounted thereto. Respective wear plates mounted to the slide plate and blade holder contact each other during movement of the pillar. A blade or forming element secured to the slidable holder contacts metal to be formed or pierced. The stop block assembly associated with the slidable blade holder limits movement of the blade in a first direction such that continued force applied thereto during movement of the pillar causes movement of the blade or forming element in a second direction transverse to that of the first direction.