R100 Rocker shims

[Gibson]

On my late model airhead, the rocker arm axial play needs to be adjusted (noisy). Valve adjustment is correct. I was going to measure the end float with a dial indicator, and then shim it to achieve the minimum correct clearance. Has anyone done this? Is BMW the only source for these shims?

[Kurt in S.A.]

Anton discusses the shims at the bottom of the page:

http://www.largiader.com/tech/rockers/

I suppose they're "just" washers of specific thicknesses...as long as it was designed for the environment, I suppose anything would work. Personally, I'd first try to get the OEM parts.

Kurt in S.A.

[Zombie Master]

OEM only!

[Gibson]

Thanks. I purchased an assortment of these online. They are a couple of bucks each. I am determined to get this tapping under control. My right cylinder is really bad so I will do that side first to see if this quiets things down a bit.

[Bill Smith]

Please post your results.

[kojones]

Bought mine from a local bearing store, just normal 16mm shims. Cost under a third compared to Motorworks. They’re just steel, so no reason to buy OEM.

[gspd]

I have read on certain websites that there is no vertical play adjustment possible with the late style rocker blocks but this is not true.
Proper vertical rocker movement is zero but free lateral movement must be maintained.
If your vertical play is not excessive you might eliminate it by loosening the rocker block bolts and squeezing them together with water pump pliers before re-tightening them.

[Gibson]

Clearance for vertical (axial) movement is not zero, although it is very small. My Haynes manual gives a spec for the range. Before I opened a new can of worms, I double checked the valve clearances before I set up to measure axial slop. Both intake and exhaust were .002 too loose. It is now a bit quieter.

[gspd]

oops! my bad!

Let's see...maybe try...zero + an oil film at either end.

[Wobbly]

Bought mine from a local bearing store, just normal 16mm shims. Cost under a third compared to Motorworks. They’re just steel, so no reason to buy OEM.

This is what I was thinking. You can even buy 16mm shim assortments off Amazon.