Feed Back on different valve shim changing tools

I managed the get the local dealer to actually help me for a change, and they can order me in two different shim changing tools. One is $40 and very simular to the Kawasaki tool in the book. The other is the motion pro tool we all know from Z1 for about 12 bucks. Is the other tool worth it? I have heard that the motion pro is tricky

Check the end of this page on my engine thread... I made these in about 10 minutes with a mapp torch and a grinder on some high-carbon stock.

A magnetic retrieval would be handy, or at least a pretty small flathead screwdriver for the initial pry-up of the shim.

kzrider.com/index.php?option=com_kunena&...imit=20&limitstart=0

I have and only will use the kawasaki tool. It's easy and why make a shitty job harder?

Actually, you can order both tools from Z1Enterprises directly. If the non-Motion Pro tool is available for US$40.00 and is actually the OEM Kawasaki shim, that is a good price...buy it. Once you figure out the nuances of the kawasaki shim tool, it beats the Motion-Pro tool hands down. However, I have no experience with Beatpoet's tool (both figuratively and literally...no comments please:) ) and his avenue may be a viable alternative.

I think Beatpoets idea would work great!:woohoo:

I made my own tool from a pic of the Kawasaki tool. I had to guess on the dimensions though because the pic was not to scale. I will look for the Kawasaki tool on the Z1 site. I am keeping three bikes running and any help with the shims would be nice.....chris3

Z1 does not show the Kawasaki tool on their web site.....chris3

coppertales wrote:

Z1 does not show the Kawasaki tool on their web site.....chris3

www.z1enterprises.com/detail.aspx?ID=1557

The original tool from Kawasaki that Z1 Ent. sells is the best, easiest to use. Not cheap but well worth the $$ imho.

Thanks Mcdroid....I did a search and it did not come up. I have it now. That will be a worth while 60 bucks. Should have bought one 35 years ago when I had my Z1......chris3