Valve Clearances Cost

[iDemonix]

The only major jobs I've done to my NC30 (met with MUCH frustration) are a clutch change and brake caliper service.

However, I have no record of when the valve clearances were last done and seeing as the last muppet didn't even use a gasket on the clutch cover, I don't imagine they've been done for a good few years (and over 10k miles) so I'd like to get them checked and adjusted for peace of mind.

Judging by cammo's guide though it looks a little intense, I've had the tank off the bike, but never the airbox and carbs, and I've heard they're a nightmare to squash back on. Plus something like shims that can really damage an engine, I imagine myself fucking it up.

Question is; is it hard or just tedious? Also would anyone know roughly what you'd expect to pay a garage to do it (and maybe balance the carbs whilst they're there as I can't afford a carb tuner).

If we're talking 80-100 quid I'd consider just getting a garage to do it, if we're talking 100-200 or more then obviously I'll have to grow a pair.

[CMSMJ1]

grow a pair :-)

well over £100...

it is easy..just takes a little bit of time.

[iDemonix]

Suppose you'd always get spanked on the labour costs for removing fairings, fuel tank, air box + carbs... I'll think about it. Might be a job for over xmas...

[alexwitham]

DIY dude. Takes time and is fiddley but straight forward enough

[hardnutdvd]

sounds like we're at roughly the same stage as regards to ability and tasks done so far. i'm nervous at the thought of attempting it too...

other than the tools and shims that may be required. is there anything else that is needed to complete the checks? i.e gaskets, grease ect?

[VFR400+]

Grease is handy to stick you shim onto a screwdriver as you position it.

Personally I'd also replace the cam cover gaskets.

A magnetic tool, feeler gauge, screwdriver and necessary socket set is all that's needed.

I've recently done mine, admittedly I had the engine out but it was my first time with such a job, its not hard just takes a little care. Main thing is to not loose them down the centre in the bowels of the engine!!!

[Variablevalves suck]

Best tip when doing shims is get two arial type magnetic tools, use one to remove the old shim and have the new shim ready on the other.

[viper61]

Yeah it's pretty straight forward and simple, just takes time and you need the patience, you cannot rush it, so don't even think about it if you've only got an couple of hours to spare.

Moly grease (mixed with some engine oil to make moly 'oil') is recommended for using on the shims upon replacement. Magnet is a definite if you ask me, so is stuffing some sort of rag or fabric (prefereably lint free) into the gaps in the centre of the engine to prevent any lost shims falling. Obviously you'll need feeler guages too, some that go up in quite fine increments - you need to be able to measure between 0.12 - 0.27mm.

Gordon if you need a hand sometime or need to borrow tools when i've done mine you're welcome.

[hardnutdvd]

thanks for the offer, when i do get round to doing them i will give you a shout if i need any guidance and a helping hand. and porndog will be down our way soon. so that another experienced fella in our neck of the woods :)
i think i will do mine this coming winter. give the bike a good refresh and going over through those dark and cold nights.