Tools

I'm thinking of adding some kit to my tool box (maybe Santa will even bring some nice stuff )

Can anybody recommend (or not) a chain splitter/rivetter and valve clearance tools?


Thanks

[rictus01]

well the first one is easy, for valve clearance checking all you'll need is a set of feeler gauges, just about any car place will have them, just be aware they come in metric or imperial.

the second is more a case of how much you're going to use it

something for just the odd chain change will be £40-50, have a look here http://www.bikehps.com/acatalog/Bike..._Tools_97.html


however if you're looking for something more and are going to be doing alot of them then look at the "Whale" brand, more expensive but it's what the pros use.


Cheers Mark.

[northwind]

Personally I fit mine with a clip link and ride to my dealers to get them rivetted... Done that twice, once it cost a fiver and once a cup of tea for the mechanic I do really like to be self sufficient but it'd take about 16 chains to pay for a quality tool, and that'll take me years.

I got my motrax tool for £45. It isn't the best but it'll last thats for sure. I've used it twice, a mate twice and ownieboy once. You can pimp the tool out and easily rake back the initial expense if you were that way inclined.

[rictus01]

I must admit for years I had my own, although the last one was fitted by Essential Rubber, and I'll probably not do any more myself but as Andy said use the spring link and get the rivet one done at a garage.

Cheers Mark.

Get a torque wrench, impact driver and big fat socket set rather.
Also handy to have is a multimeter.

[lukemillar]

Originally Posted by rictus01

well the first one is easy, for valve clearance checking all you'll need is a set of feeler gauges, just about any car place will have them, just be aware they come in metric or imperial.

to add - make sure that you get one with small increments as well. Many of the metric ones come in 0.05mm increments which isn't that precise when checking the valve clearances on the SV. The clearances should be between 0.1-0.2mm (IN) and 0.2-0.3mm (EX) so a gauge which gives you good range within those would be perfect!

Thanks for all the replies. I already have a fairly well stocked tool kit so was thinking of adding some more specialist tools but you've got me thinking that maybe the money is better spent elsewhere.

With regards to the valve tools I was actually thinking about tools for changing the shims (sorry I should've been more descriptive with my question) On reflection maybe I'll leave it to the experts.

I tried to get the local shop to rivet the chain last time and had no joy but that was probably my fault for wanting it done in a hurry. More planning required.

Thanks again for all the replies.

Originally Posted by trudd

With regards to the valve tools I was actually thinking about tools for changing the shims (sorry I should've been more descriptive with my question) On reflection maybe I'll leave it to the experts.

No special tools required to remove the shims, just sockets, spanners, a CCT winding back tool and erm...thats it really. Might want a little magnet tool for digging out the shim itself but usually it'll come out with the bucket. If you're talking about removing the valves then yes, valve spring compressor, about £20.

[Viney]

Originally Posted by Squid

3 grades of hammer

Fine, Medium and coarse

That and an angle grinder