I used the tool when I did mine (it was included in the circulating kit).  I had trouble with it at first, and found that it only worked well when applied in a specific direction.  Using it from the other side of the camshaft would not allow it to fit properly.  I can't remember now which way was right, but if you're having trouble try flipping the tool around and going at the bucket from the other side.

Quote from: bucks1605 on June 06, 2007, 10:13:39 PM

Quote from: ben2go on June 06, 2007, 09:55:16 PM
Some one do a write up with pics or a video!I gotta do my valves.Damn thang sounds like it has solid lifters and loose rocker arms.

Is this what you're looking for?

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-2015554469142545363&q=suzuki+gs500

That's it!Thanks.Simpler than I thought.

Quote from: ben2go on June 07, 2007, 08:53:32 AM

Quote from: bucks1605 on June 06, 2007, 10:13:39 PM

Quote from: ben2go on June 06, 2007, 09:55:16 PM
Some one do a write up with pics or a video!I gotta do my valves.Damn thang sounds like it has solid lifters and loose rocker arms.

Is this what you're looking for?

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-2015554469142545363&q=suzuki+gs500

That's it!Thanks.Simpler than I thought.

No problem, I've watched that whole video even though I've never adjusted the valves. 

Quote from: Mandres on June 07, 2007, 07:50:59 AM
I used the tool when I did mine (it was included in the circulating kit).  I had trouble with it at first, and found that it only worked well when applied in a specific direction.  Using it from the other side of the camshaft would not allow it to fit properly.  I can't remember now which way was right, but if you're having trouble try flipping the tool around and going at the bucket from the other side.

I checked my valves just yesterday and had to change one of the exhaust shims.  I used the tool and went in from the back/piston side, worked just fine.  I don't think I've ever tried it from the other way, it would probably hit the casing

Yeah, you definitely have to go from the "inside" of the engine.  Back for exhaust, front for intake.  You can't compress it enough the other way because of the angle of the valves.

I need to do my valves real bad.I got a tic in there like it's low on oil.Dunno if the valves have ever been touched.How do I go about purchasing shims?Is there a kit?Do I have to tear my bike down,check it, and then order shims?My bike is currently my only ride.Oh,should I purchase shims from my dealer or do you guys use an aftermarket resource?Thanks for the help.

ben

Quote from: ben2go on June 07, 2007, 11:51:08 PM
I need to do my valves real bad.I got a tic in there like it's low on oil.Dunno if the valves have ever been touched.How do I go about purchasing shims?Is there a kit?Do I have to tear my bike down,check it, and then order shims?My bike is currently my only ride.Oh,should I purchase shims from my dealer or do you guys use an aftermarket resource?Thanks for the help.

ben

I just realized you are right up the highway from me. Bring your bike down and we can adjust your valves.

Just replaced two shims using this  DIY valve tool , works great even though looks crude , made it with the info from the members of this site

Quote from: ben2go on June 07, 2007, 11:51:08 PM
I need to do my valves real bad.I got a tic in there like it's low on oil.

Gasoline engines don't tick when they're low on oil.  They knock, like a diesel engine.  However, you do need to check and probably adjust your valves if it's ticking.

Quote from: Affschnozel on June 08, 2007, 05:41:55 AM


Just replaced two shims using this  DIY valve tool , works great even though looks crude , made it with the info from the members of this site

Wow, that's ghetto.   

Quote from: dgyver on June 08, 2007, 03:51:49 AM

Quote from: ben2go on June 07, 2007, 11:51:08 PM
I need to do my valves real bad.I got a tic in there like it's low on oil.Dunno if the valves have ever been touched.How do I go about purchasing shims?Is there a kit?Do I have to tear my bike down,check it, and then order shims?My bike is currently my only ride.Oh,should I purchase shims from my dealer or do you guys use an aftermarket resource?Thanks for the help.

ben

I just realized you are right up the highway from me. Bring your bike down and we can adjust your valves.

OK.That'd be cool.When would be a good time.And how much $$$ do I need to bring with me?

Quote from: ben2go on June 08, 2007, 07:54:01 AM

Quote from: dgyver on June 08, 2007, 03:51:49 AM

Quote from: ben2go on June 07, 2007, 11:51:08 PM
I need to do my valves real bad.I got a tic in there like it's low on oil.Dunno if the valves have ever been touched.How do I go about purchasing shims?Is there a kit?Do I have to tear my bike down,check it, and then order shims?My bike is currently my only ride.Oh,should I purchase shims from my dealer or do you guys use an aftermarket resource?Thanks for the help.

ben

I just realized you are right up the highway from me. Bring your bike down and we can adjust your valves.

OK.That'd be cool.When would be a good time.And how much $$$ do I need to bring with me?

No charge. I am available this Sunday and planning on doing bike/truck stuff, so I will be home all day. I do have some plans with the g/f in the late afternoon. Or most any evening during the week is fine. Weekend availability will vary.

Not sure if anyone has used the zip tie method, but I've come to use a hybrid of it with a screwdriver. I pop my shims out in under a min Each. I rotate the cam so that it depresses the bucket, and then stop just as it starts to raise back up. Shove my flathead screwdriver in place and then very slowing turn the cam a Lil more until the lobe clears the bucket and the bucket raises up and the screwdriver acts as a stop and then I just pop out the shim.

I'm sure someone else has already figured this out, but I Def find it easier then using the 2 screwdriver method, for me that is anyway.