Tip - Removing Valve Shims - Air Tool

[fiasco]

When Alvon was over last weekend, we had to replace a couple of valve shims. Normally Alvon gets the shims out by using a small, triggered air valve on the compressor to blow air under the shim to pop it out. I have a compressor, but no little trigger valve, and Alvon didn't have his in the car. So, being quick of wit, and prone to modify, I came up with this little solution that seemed to really impress Alvon, so I figured I better post it for all to see.

I took a simple ball-inflation needle and cut the end off to eliminate the side hole. The cutters crushed the tube a bit so I had to use pliers to squish it back into shape a little, and here is how it came out.



The advantage, as I gather, is that the needle is really small, and can fit down into the gap next to the shim so that all the air is directed under the shim, and none goes out around the shim, splattering oil all over the place. Nice and clean. Of course you have to have some way of letting the air through since there is no trigger. I guess you could screw this on to a triggered valve if you have one that will work that way. Last weekend, I just stood at the compressor and opened/closed the valve at Alvon's direction.

Enjoy!
-- se

[mbouse]

so simple, yet so helpful.

Thanks Steve

[Kevin1]

Did you use this along with a spring compressor tool to get the shims out, or does this somehow "blow them loose" without compressing the spring?

[fiasco]

Did you use this along with a spring compressor tool to get the shims out, or does this somehow "blow them loose" without compressing the spring?

Used in conjunction with Alvon's spring compressor.

-- se

[joelbert2k]

Excellent idea Steve!!
I've been using the same method as Alvon and it sure can make a mess. I'm going to be doing them this weekend so I'm going to give it a try.
Joel

[narfire]

Cool, I love using tools. I used a small magnet on a telescopic rod to remove my shims and a 8 mm wrench from the black hole around the rear shock mounts.