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Shim Tool

  • Thread starter Thread starter colin9623
  • Start date Start date
C

colin9623

Guest
Has any one got any bright idea's :idea: on shim tools, I bought a cheap one that lasted only a short time (mild steel).
Does anyone make a aftermarket tool that's hardened, I imagine the genuine one is, but costs over $200 Aus.:eek:
Thanks all
 
Which "cheap" one did you buy. I think I got mine from z1, and it works great! It was $15 or so.
 
I about using and then read of one person who used a shock spring preload tool.
They said it worked, I'm going to try it for myself.
 
I asked a mechanic and he said he used a screwdriver and a magnet!!!
Fortunately he will never see my bike and I always wonder how he took the parts off he was selling! Maybe a hammer and a punch!:eek:
 
I ordered one today from Z1 , I dunno how good it is, but the price, including shipping to the UK, was 20$ , awesome.
 
Have you tried the zip ties method Very cheap & easy. Insert the zip tie thru the spark plug hole when the valve is open, rotate the valve to close Instant clearance for shim removal
 
Last edited:
colin9623 said:
Has any one got any bright idea's :idea: on shim tools, I bought a cheap one that lasted only a short time (mild steel).
Does anyone make a aftermarket tool that's hardened, I imagine the genuine one is, but costs over $200 Aus.:eek:
Thanks all
Click to expand...

Colin where do you call home?
Don - Sydney
 
Re shim tool

Re shim tool

Borrowed a genuine shim tool from a bike shop today, I can't believe the difference.:eek: No slipping, depress shim bucket and it stays depressed. I have to get one!! Not sure what brand the aftermarket one was but compared to genuine it was crapp!!
I'm from Brisbane.
Thanks all.:D
 
I might have to try the genuine tool some time, but in the meantime, I use the zip-tie method. The only suggestions I have concerning that are:
1) Get a long enough zip-tie. At least 10-12 inches works nicely.
2) Crimp the folds so they are nice and crisp.
3) Put tape around the zip-tie just above the 45-degree bend to stiffen the whole assembly.
4) Don't make the 'tip' too long. If it is too long, it's hard to get down the plug hole. About 3/8" (10mm) works well.

.
 
Steve said:
I might have to try the genuine tool some time, but in the meantime, I use the zip-tie method. The only suggestions I have concerning that are:
1) Get a long enough zip-tie. At least 10-12 inches works nicely.
2) Crimp the folds so they are nice and crisp.
3) Put tape around the zip-tie just above the 45-degree bend to stiffen the whole assembly.
4) Don't make the 'tip' too long. If it is too long, it's hard to get down the plug hole. About 3/8" (10mm) works well.

.
Click to expand...

Steve,
That must be the OEM zip tie, do not use an aftermarket zip tie!!:lol:
 
The zip-tie method works like a charm.
I'd add the PVC pipe and C-Clamp valve spring compressor detailed in Steve's valve replacement video works perfectly as well. I spend enough on parts that I try and avoid expensive tools when possible.
 
doctorgonzo said:
The zip-tie method works like a charm.
I'd add the PVC pipe and C-Clamp valve spring compressor detailed in Steve's valve replacement video works perfectly as well. I spend enough on parts that I try and avoid expensive tools when possible.
Click to expand...

I missed Steves video, where is it found? He usually has some very usefull suggestions and ideas.
 
Matchless said:
I missed Steves video, where is it found? He usually has some very usefull suggestions and ideas.
Click to expand...

I'll see if I can find the link. He may come along and post it. It's him installing a set of valves.
 
My mechanic is prolly in his early fifties and when we had to change the shims he suggested I buy a shim tool from a website, becuase he is used to the shim tool. I looked here and found the ziptie method. Bought myself a pack of zipties for prolly $5-10 and when I told him and showed him the ziptie he was surprised. He showed me when to insert to do every shim and he thought it was a cool way and inexpensive way to change shims. Another vote for the ziptie! :)
 
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