5 speed trans shimming

Discuss all things 1970 & later Airheads right here.
Post Reply
515moto
Posts: 3
Joined: Mon Jan 19, 2026 6:02 pm

5 speed trans shimming

Post by 515moto »

Hi all,
Following much written and video instructions I carefully and I think correctly determined end play gap and therefore the needed shimming. To get to .005" (my target) I need what seems like a lot of shimming! 42, 53 and 56 thousandths are needed. So, for those who have done this, is this a lot? I did have to replace the cover with one sourced from ebay so it is not the original cover. Hmm. Thoughts anyone?
Rob Frankham
Posts: 1391
Joined: Thu Aug 26, 2010 2:11 pm
Location: Scotland UK, 20 miles from civilisation up a dead end road!
Contact:

Re: 5 speed trans shimming

Post by Rob Frankham »

It does seen quite high but, if that's what it takes, then thats what you need to use. If you're completely satisfied with your measurements than go for it, but I would be inclined to do the math again just to check. That being said, if the shims are too thick, the gearbox will be tight once the cover bolts have been tightened down. If this turns out to be the case, then you need to re-visit the whole procedure.

Rob
ImageImageImage
515moto
Posts: 3
Joined: Mon Jan 19, 2026 6:02 pm

Re: 5 speed trans shimming

Post by 515moto »

Thanks Rob. The measurements were careful and the math was done 2 different ways twice with the same final result each time. I guess I need to source a few more plus-size shims. My collection will not do the job!
User avatar
gspd
Posts: 1126
Joined: Tue Aug 03, 2010 8:04 pm

Re: 5 speed trans shimming

Post by gspd »

FWIW. I aim for zero clearance without the gasket.
Mechanic from Hell
"I remember every raging second of it...
My bike was on fire, the road was on fire, and I was on fire.
It was the best ride ever!"
515moto
Posts: 3
Joined: Mon Jan 19, 2026 6:02 pm

Re: 5 speed trans shimming

Post by 515moto »

Hi. I measured with the gasket in place.
Post Reply