Valve bucket tool?

[baytonemus]

I've got a special after-market valve bucket tool for my Yamaha XJs and am wondering if there's something similar available for the GS bikes. I'm familiar with the "zip-tie" method and am also aware that some folks use a piece of wire with the insulation on it from some Romex.

Also, is there a vendor that specializes in GS parts or do most of you just buy from BikeBandit, OBB, JCWhitney, etc?

Thanks!

[UncleBen]

z1enterprises.com has tons of stuff for the GS and their customer service is second to none.

The zip tie method really is easiest IMO though.

[Dogma]

Cliff should be along with his mega-welcome, which contains his list of preferred vendors. I usually go with Z1 or PartShark (remember to request that PartShark doesn't require a signature for delivery if nobody will be there). One of these two is usually the cheapest. Some good results have been had with Carolina Cycle too.

BikbBandit is expensive but may be quick, depending on the item and you location relative to them. Old Bike Barn I seem to remember hearing bad reports of. Search the forum here, we have a special repository of deadbeat alerts.

I have the Motion Pro (I think) version of the shim tool. Don't bother. The material is too soft, and it soon wears to the point that it is nearly impossible to keep on the bucket. Unless you have a masterful touch and can keep it from slipping off in the first place. If you can score the OEM tool cheap, that might be worthwhile, but I think it's somewhere around $90.

[baytonemus]

Thanks, guys. I've always been a little leery of the zip-tie and similar methods because of concern about busting loose a chunk of carbon. However, I'm just helping a friend with his bike in this case so a major tool investment is not worthwhile.

I'll check out the vendors you mentioned. May be back with specific carb parts questions. Thanks.

[MisterCinders]

I bought the "special tool" from Z1 for about $15. It has never failed me once.

[Steve]

I bought the "special tool" from Z1 for about $15. It has never failed me once.

I don't remember where I got my "special tool", but it hasn't failed me once, either.

It has failed me LOTS of times.

ZIP TIES RULE!!!

.

[BigD_83]

Motorcycle Superstore carried it when I picked one up about 6 weeks ago...about $16.00 IIRC

[Ghostgs1]

As others before have suggested, use a screwdriver to hold the bucket compressor in place. This works very well for me. Ray

[1980GS1000E]

Also, keep it oiled while using it.