Valve Clearance Questions (CB500)

[Falco]

It has come time to do the valve clearances (or at least take the measurements). As this is my first time doing shims under buckets, I have a couple of blindingly obvious questions:

1) Do you really have to take the camshafts and buckets out to check the shim size for ordering replacements?

2) The method for calculating shim replacements: (specified clearance - measured clearance) +/- original shim thickness (depending on if clearance is too large/small), is this correct?
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I tell you what, mathematically, I'm having it

[A100man]

[stinkwheel]

I confidently predict they will all be within tolerance.

But Yes and Yes.

Also do not believe the numbers stamped on the shims except as a very rough guide.

Toilerances aside, it's not unusual to grind down an oversize shim thinner if you need a thinner one. I've done it myself, I'm considerate and grind the numbered face, others might not think that far ahead.

If you don't already own a micrometer, now is the time.

You'll probably want some silver paint for the rocker cover too. Plastikote radiator satin chrome works well and is a close match to the original.
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“Rule one: Always stick around for one more drink. That's when things happen. That's when you find out everything you want to know.”
I did the 2010 Round Britain Rally on my 350 Bullet. 89 landmarks, 3 months, 9,500 miles.

[Petemate]

Cheers stinkwheel for the Plastikote ref - I like the sound of that for my outer engine cases.
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82 not out....1983 Honda LA250 Custom
2008 Saab 9-3 1.9 Tid 150 Vector Sport estate
2005 Stirling Eccles Topaz 2-berth

[Falco]

[Falco]

Sorry Stinkwheel, every. single. valve. out. of. spec.

Yaaaay public transport until the new ones are delivered.
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I tell you what, mathematically, I'm having it

[Baggyman]

[Falco]

[stinkwheel]