Valve tappet adjustment

[Little Jo]

Hi All

I am seeking advice from MLU members who have adjusted the tappets on a 1942 MB Willys Jeep. I did a compression test and had readings for the numbers 1- 2 and 3 cylinders showing between 100 lb and 105 lb, however the number 4 cylinder was down to 75 lb. the spark plugs showed no oil but were black as if running too rich.

I decided to adjust the tappets, particularly on number 4. I have never done this before and as a novice I consulted my manual which shows a photograph on how to do it. I aslo consulted G503 on the internet which showed how to do it step by step. The photos and narrative also show removal of the mudguard.

Is it possible to effectively adjust the tappets without having to remove the mudguard, this is not mentioned in my manual, so before tackling the job I thought it a good idea to obtain some expert advice from someone who has done it before. Hope you can help.

cheers

Tony