Perhaps I am not using the best tool choices for removing the valve cover but by the time I would finally be able to get the valve cover off, the engine would be way cooler than operating temp.! And approaching ambient by the time I measured the last few valve clearances!
BTW I use a combination of 1/4" drive 10mm socket + extension + 1/4" drive ratchet and/or pivot-head "breaker bar." I like to do final removal of the nuts with a magnetized socket, since I have managed to lose a few nuts thru the void between the intake manifold and head or elsewhere.
Too bad the magnetic socket (think they call it nutdriver) is not deep enough to use for the whole process. Also it is not thin enough for the very frontmost corner nuts where access is limited by the rear plate of the front belt cover.
Has anyone come up with a more efficient method? Sorry for highjacking the thread.
Needless to say, I have only measured valve clearances cold!