Questions about shims

[DPage]

With the "zip-tie" method, the only downside I've heard of (and I think this comes from Steve or Nessim) is that IF the plastic tie pushes any burnt carbon up into to the valve stem/mushroom you are measuring WHEN you measure it the first time, it could affect the valve clearance the SECOND time you measure it. So just make sure you're extra careful when measuring the first time. In practical experience, I've found the measurements are the same, but in theory this could happen.

 

[Steve]

With the "zip-tie" method, the only downside I've heard of ...

Well, here is another 'downside':

While helping shibby_cbs adjust his valves last week, the fold at the end of my zip-tie broke.

I don't think there were any pieces left in the cylinder, but I will now recommend using a new zip-tie every couple of valve adjustments.

I think that particular zip-tie has adjusted the valves on half a dozen or so bikes, so get a new one sooner than that.

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