Shim Tool

[colin9623]

Has any one got any bright idea's 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.
Thanks all

[Matchless]

Have you seen this yet http://www.mediafire.com/?3ptmrhwxzvm

[Skyboy8950]

Which "cheap" one did you buy. I think I got mine from z1, and it works great! It was $15 or so.

[Zook]

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.

[Matchless]

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!

[Headphase]

I ordered one today from Z1 , I dunno how good it is, but the price, including shipping to the UK, was 20$ , awesome.

[dardoonk]

The Z1 tool works fine. It's just a matter of getting the knack slipping it just right.

[SqDancerLynn1]

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

[Suzuki_Don]

Has any one got any bright idea's 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.
Thanks all

Colin where do you call home?
Don - Sydney

[colin9623]

Re shim tool

Borrowed a genuine shim tool from a bike shop today, I can't believe the difference. 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.

[Steve]

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.

.

[Matchless]

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,
That must be the OEM zip tie, do not use an aftermarket zip tie!!

[Skyboy8950]

I tried to get some OEM zip ties. They cost $23 each!

[doctorgonzo]

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.

[Matchless]

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.

I missed Steves video, where is it found? He usually has some very usefull suggestions and ideas.