valve shim tappet tool

[Guest]

is this tool the correct one for my 8 valve bike?

the "cup" seems really small. I found myself imagining that it's meant for a smaller size shim and that maybe the 16v engines have smaller shims (no idea if this is true).

[Agemax]

that is the correct one for the job,the "cup" fits under the camshaft, next to the lobe

[BassCliff]

Hi,

Yes, that's the tool. It takes a little practice. Some members like the "zip tie method". You'll find it on my website.

For more information: Valve Adjustments (8 Valve) (PDF file).

DO NOT rotate the cams if there are any shims removed. You must have a shim in every bucket when turning the motor or you will damage the cam lobes.


Thank you for your indulgence,

BassCliff

[7981GS]

Darn near effortless.



Eric

[bwringer]

Nice photo!

The trick to using that tool is to get it started, and then pull the handle sideways toward the cam lobe as you push down to insert it the rest of the way.

If you just try to push straight down, it'll pop off the bucket every time. Which leads people to invent workarounds like the zip-tie method.

[7981GS]

I should have included the easy to remove method picture also.
Use a pick to lift the shim and hemostat to grab it.




Eric

[1980GS1000E]

Some assembly lube on the part of the tool that depresses the bucket helps, too. The tool is softer than the parts. It will leave very trace amounts of itself if not lubed.

[robertbarr]

The trick to using that tool is to get it started, and then pull the handle sideways toward the cam lobe as you push down to insert it the rest of the way.

I'll have to remember that! First time I've heard of that. Now that I once again own an 8-valve Suzuki...

[Nessism]

I use a small screwdriver along side the shim tool to keep it from slipping off. Works for me.

[shwaz]

freakin spectacular. thanks so much everyone, especially eric. great photos. i might have figured that out eventually but that was a huge help.

i used the zip ties last time and swore i would never do it again. nothing wrong with it, it works ok but man you have to turn the lobes so many more times to do it that way and it's such a huge pain. this tool is tremendous - was such a cinch.

[7981GS]

freakin spectacular. thanks so much everyone, especially eric. great photos. i might have figured that out eventually but that was a huge help.

i used the zip ties last time and swore i would never do it again. nothing wrong with it, it works ok but man you have to turn the lobes so many more times to do it that way and it's such a huge pain. this tool is tremendous - was such a cinch.

Ask TimTom for help if he can be near you some time.
He caught on really quick with me snapping the whip.
(I was relentless.)

Eric

[shwaz]

Ask TimTom for help if he can be near you some time.
He caught on really quick with me snapping the whip.
(I was relentless.)

Eric

no doubt - you had to get him back on the road and out of your hair!

seriously, that tool makes it easy to the point that i can't believe someone bothered figuring out it was possible to do with zip ties. what a hassle that was! i'll pay the $12 for the right tool any time.

anyway, only got through 2 valves last night and they're way out of whack. will hit up the remainder soon. thanks again for the help!

[Tim Tom]

The trick to using that tool is to get it started, and then pull the handle sideways toward the cam lobe as you push down to insert it the rest of the way. If you just try to push straight down, it'll pop off the bucket every time. Which leads people to invent workarounds like the zip-tie method.

This is the secret to success with the valve tool. As I learned rather quickly.

I use a small screwdriver along side the shim tool to keep it from slipping off. Works for me.

This also helps. The key is the sideways pressure against the lobe. Without this pressure the tool will slip off.

Thanks to Eric I mastered this technique

[1980GS1000E]

I use a small screwdriver along side the shim tool to keep it from slipping off. Works for me.

Yes, it works very well.

[TeamDar]

At last, a handful of forum members that are not too cheap or ham fisted to use the correct tool for an easy job. Some members may even be surprised to know that there are some of us that actually know when and how to use an easy out without breaking it off.