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Shim removal with zip tie

Discussion in 'XJ Technical Chat' started by brianw2, Sep 1, 2010.

  1. brianw2

    brianw2 New Member

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    Hi all
    I have read a bit about removing the valve shims using a zip tie on this site. Can anyone in a bit more detail explain how to use this method as I dont have the correct tool. This will be my first attempt to remove shims so Im a bit green on this subject. Any help would be great
    Thank Brian
     
    brianw2, Sep 1, 2010
    #1
  2. WinstonC

    WinstonC Member

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    I will assume you have read Fitz's fantastic writeup http://xjbikes.com/Forums/viewtopic/t=14827.html so,

    When you have the cam against the bucket so that the valve is fully open, instead of putting the bucket tool on, you insert a zip tie (or I like to use 10 gauge insulated electrical wire) through the spark plug hole. "feel" the wire go between the valve and valve seat, then rotate the crank to continue valve check/adjustment.

    The good thing about using the zip tie or wire is that you don't have to worry about moving the cam in the wrong direction. The good thing about the bucket tool is that the engineers designed it work properly for a reason. Some say that the wire can put undue pressure on the valve, but thankfully it is not a huge discussion, we leave that for YICS :)
     
    WinstonC, Sep 1, 2010
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  3. Polock

    Polock Well-Known Member

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    this is what your trying do, from the other side
    use a big zip tie with a 90 bend on the end
     
    Polock, Sep 1, 2010
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  4. wizard

    wizard Active Member

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    Hi Brian, I wouldn't use a zip tie, the valves can shear them right off, better to use twin & earth electrical (house wire), bend a 10mm right angle on the end, turn the motor until you see the valve you are working on, through the plug hole, then just fit the wire between the valve & the seat.
     
    wizard, Sep 1, 2010
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  5. xyxj650

    xyxj650 Member

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    You guys are great!!!! I was actually riding in my car today wondering how this method really worked(sounds like a joke but it is true)! Guess I was supposed to know the answer after all! Thanks!!!
     
    xyxj650, Sep 1, 2010
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  6. brianw2

    brianw2 New Member

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    Thanks heaps fellas I did read Fitzs write up great info but as I didnt have the tool was keen to try these other methods. Thanks for the photo Polock That really make it a lot clearer for me. Will give it a try this weekend. Once again thanks all for your help
    Brian
     
    brianw2, Sep 2, 2010
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  7. brianw2

    brianw2 New Member

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    Couldnt wait till the weekend went down to the garage to try it out used a piece twin earth electrical wire worked first time Brilliant quick and easy
    Once again Thanks fellas
     
    brianw2, Sep 2, 2010
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