Advice on tool

Hey there,

Bummer, I just found out that the shims on my bike do not have any sizes stamped onto them.

Now I need a good and reliable tool to measure shim thickness. I don't even know what it's called: caliper, micrometer? Both the same?

Any suggestions? Self explanatory that it has to be accurate measuring small thicknesses.

Digital would be ideal and way easier.


Thanks
G

 

Best using a micrometer that is what I have. With a micrometer you can measure the centre of the shim where the cam lobe is bearing. A vernier caliper will measure across the shim the micrometer allows you to measure the centre as stated.

 

Thanks.
Looking for good brand/model that people have good experience with, or which to stay away from

 

I have a Draper one but there are many on the following link. Some of the other XJ owners can give you their opinions on which is best for accuracy and value for money. Here is the link hope this helps.

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=micromet...1&sprefix=micrometer,aps,302&ref=sr_nr_p_72_1

 

Awesome, thank you

 

get one new shim that you know the size of and use it as a standard to test device. shim sizes are not dead on to the stamped size. closest shims to marked size are oem shims and BMW shims

 

go to harbor freight and get a 6 inch caliper, it's more accurate than you need to be for $15 bucks

 

I use a Vernier caliper. It will measure inside distances, as well. here's what I use in the garage and it's been good enough for my needs.

https://www.amazon.com/VINCA-DCLA-0605-Electronic-Fractions-Conversion/dp/B017KUC6XQ/ref=sr_1_3

 

Thanks guys.
I ordered one. I actually use my caliper a lot so upgrading to digital will be nice. Well, that and the fact that I can finally finish the valve clearance job soon.