How can you obtain proper clearance if it's too small on L-head engines?

Obtaining proper clearance in L-head engines is crucial for optimal performance and preventing engine damage. When the clearance is too small, it can lead to issues such as valves not seating properly, which can impair engine efficiency and increase wear.

Grinding on the end of the valve stem is the correct method for adjusting clearance because it effectively reduces the length of the valve stem. This action increases the distance between the rocker arm and the valve, allowing for the desired clearance specifications. Adjusting it this way is a precise method to ensure that the clearance is at the manufacturer's recommended levels without the need for replacing parts unnecessarily.

Other methods, such as replacing the valve or tightening the valve seat, do not directly address clearance issues. Replacing the valve may be required in cases of damage but does not solve a clearance problem if the selected valve is still inappropriate for the specifications. Additionally, adjusting the piston height is unrelated to valve clearance and could lead to other complications in engine operation. Hence, grinding the end of the valve stem serves as the most effective and targeted solution for adjusting valve clearance in L-head engines.