Valve Clearances on a Maxim-X

I have a 1986 Maxim X that I want to adjust the valve clearances on before I start riding too much again this spring. Has anybody seen a tutorial for adjusting the valve clearances on one? I've found some great stuff on here for non-Xs, but it seems like a whole difference ball game considering the cams have to come out. I'm kind of worried about getting them back in right and getting the timing chain set right.

 

I have a how to with pics posted somwhere on here. I don't get online much anymore bur am happy o answer questions it just may take a day or two for me to post

 

did you create your own thread for it?

 

Nevermind, I found it here

http://xjbikes.com/Forums/viewtopic/t=1 ... rance.html

you rule (and this thread could probably be deleted, although I couldn't find that page until I had your username MaximXX).

 

I was able to cable tie the sprockets to the chain and mark the camshaft position to avoid timing issues later in the process.

It goes without saying to be carefull with all those little parts. There is a vacuum in the oil pan that sucks anything you could drop down the hole!
Also....those little shims will fall right through a spark plug hole into the cylinder DAMHIKT
Doesn't hurt to have a pick-up magnet handy if you are feeling clumsy.

When it comes to getting replacement shims, do a search. I and others have posted some options to swap them free if you have time to wait.
Buying a complete set will set you back $150 plus

 

When you are dealing with a situation where ANYTHING might fall into the Cam Chain Cut-out or anyplace where a false move could spell disaster ... DON"T commence the activity until you have PACKED the open spaces with linen,

Stop by any Thrift Shop and buy a decent, linen Sheet.
Cut a long, continuous strip of Sheet 2-1/2 ~ 3.0" Wide.
Use the long strip of lined to STUFF the Channels and Voids with; packing the material in to prevent small parts from falling into the area you pack with the sheet.

If you do drop something ... you're covered.
Unpacking the Void is as easy as pulling-out the cloth.
Get into the habit of packing the split whenever you are doing work requiring the removal of the Cam Cover.

 

Solid advice, Rick; I use the "super tough" red paper shop towels myself.

Nothing worse than dropping a shim down the camchain gallery, even in an airhead motor.