Topic: shims?

[rchrdms]

Hi,

I've recently rebuilt the top end of my '72 CL 350 Twin. I replaced the cam, bearings, and head. Also, the valves and rockers.

Now that I've got the thing together and on the bike I see that the rocker pins won't turn when I adjust the valves. When I loosen the side covers a little then they turn freely, but with the covers torqued down they bind up. My old head never did this.

I'm wondering if it needs shimming. I've got one shim on the left side and none on the right; both sides have problems.

I've also thought anout installing a thicker, home made gasket to get the space so it will turn without binding the adjusting pins.

Does this make sense to anyone? I've come a long way only to get held up at the end.

Thanks for your help.

Rick

[754]

Are you sure valve is fully closed when you try to adjust?

 Did you check cam for endplay, BEFORE installing rockers?

[rchrdms]

No, I didn't check cam for end play-- I don't have the dial tool. I did make sure valves were closed when I installed it.

Thanks for answering.

[754]

You can still check w/o an indicator, it better have some end play.

[rchrdms]

Thanks again for responding. Do I check with the side cover/ bearings on or off the bike? I am reluctant to take it off the bike and undo the top of the engine again.

Besides, the rockers seem to hold everything together. It moves a lot without them in place.