Cheers Pip :)

Neo - thanks for the advice - Indeed, i'm off to buy a 0.01 accuracy micrometer - I end up measuring twice generally too - usually because I end up doubting myself and would rather spend the extra time getting it right. I will us a pair of feelers if I have the option.

As you say, I'm going to pull all the 0.13 shims out this evening to see if I've got any I can swap around to get better clearances.

As for your last point - I wouldnt think of doing otherwise :)


Yeah speedy, the rocker is pressed against the cam on mine - I did try lifting it up as I've never dealt with rocker arms before - my other bikes are shim under bucket and have no rockers in.

If it's thinner shims you need, rub your current ones down a bit on a flat surface with a bit of emery paper. Lay the paper down and rub the shim across it. Only takes a few mins on each one and saves you having to fork out for new ones.
I helped do a valve clearance article for Classic Bike (I think, although may have been Practical Sportsbikes) using a VFR400 and this method back in 2009 or 2010. If you can find a copy it's got a step by step guide with pics etc.

Thanks Phil - can this not lead to the shims themselves becoming uneven?

Possibly ever so slightly, but not enough that you could even measure it with a micrometer. You only want very fine paper on a good flat surface.

It used to be pretty common practice 'back in the day'. These days most people just buy or swap shims, but that's more a reflection on the way society in general has changed than anything else.

Well, that was fun - I actually need bigger shims anyway as the ones out of spec are too loose.

I've pulled all the shims out of the rear Vee, they're almost all exactly the same size for inlet and outlet - around 2.2 and 2.45 respectively, so no swapping for me

That was one of the most stressful things I've done in a while.

I think the bit I'll find most stressful is having the guts to hit the starter once I've done the job... lol

Heheh - Yeah I can understand that - I usually turn the engine over by hand a few times just to check I haven't made any massive mistakes, then cross my fingers. I've got to the point where I trust myself over most m/c garages anyway. That doesnt mean I dont make the odd mistake, of course :)

I've dropped Rick O an email anyway, so I should hopefully have some new shims and be able to check the old girl soon.