Valve adjusting shims

[Geezer]

I finally got around to doing my first valve adjustment. I found five of the valves a little tight, right on the edge of being out of spec, and one loose and out of spec.

I pulled the cams and the the cups for the ones I want to adjust and found the shims have no markings on them. I thought they would have a thickness marked on them so I could order the replacements. Is this normal? I guess I have to measure the old shims in order to know what to order.

 

[Wicked Webby]

I finally got around to doing my first valve adjustment. I found five of the valves a little tight, right on the edge of being out of spec, and one loose and out of spec.
I pulled the cams and the the cups for the ones I want to adjust and found the shims have no markings on them. I thought they would have a thickness marked on them so I could order the replacements. Is this normal? I guess I have to measure the old shims in order to know what to order.

I have heard from numerous mechanics that the HONDA SHIMS are best to use. What I was told is that they have smaller sized ones that offer a better adjustment range. Though, I do not know if this is true or not.

WW

 

[HaulinAshe]

Shims are printed, not stamped, with the size/numbers. It's fairly common for the size info to wear off with time.

Digital calipers are your friend.

JP Cycles sells nice shim assortments and refill packs. If you only need one or two then I suggest using your local stealership.

 

[vabrzn]

The size should be on the bottom ( valve side ), I've never seen one without the size etched on it; always a first time though!

 

[HaulinAshe]

The size should be on the bottom ( valve side ), I've never seen one without the size etched on it; always a first time though!

Man, we see them ALL the time on the Yami dirt bikes. Probably one of every ten will have partial or no info. I really thought it was just normal.

 

[Rickster]

Shims are printed, not stamped, with the size/numbers. It's fairly common for the size info to wear off with time.
Digital calipers are your friend.

My experience (although limited), is the same as Jeff's. Typically printed, and the printing wears off of the old/used ones. New one's for me have always been marked (i.e. ink stamped).

 

[garauld]

I'm just wondering, what are they charging for shims these days? :huh:

 

[HaulinAshe]

I'm just wondering, what are they charging for shims these days? :huh:

Roughly $35 for a pack of five(5) assorted range.

 

[vabrzn]

The size should be on the bottom ( valve side ), I've never seen one without the size etched on it; always a first time though!

Man, we see them ALL the time on the Yami dirt bikes. Probably one of every ten will have partial or no info. I really thought it was just normal.

Should have worded that better, etched isn't the right word. Usually the first number and the third number are readable and the second can be figured out with the shim chart; checked with calipers. I haven't checked them on the fjr yet though.

 

[vabrzn]

I'm just wondering, what are they charging for shims these days? :huh:

Some dealers will exchange your old shim for the correct size at no charge.

 

[Geezer]

Thanks for the responses. I removed 6 shims and I could not see any markings on any of them. I have an old micrometer that hasn't been calibrated in at least thirty years so I guess I'm due for a new measuring tool. I will definitely go digital.

I hope my local dealer has the shims I need in stock. The ice is finally gone from my driveway and I might be able to ride this week if I get the bike back together. :yahoo: