Valve Clearance Check

[mike_h]

What do you guys use to lock engine in TDC to do valve clearance check instead of the special tool called out in the service manual? Does it even really need to be locked in position? Other bikes I've done didn't need to be but this is first time for me to do bucket type valves.

[kpracing12]

I use a 8mm x 30mm allen head socket screw ground to a point. It locks the engine at TDC on the left side of the crankshaft. No I don't see a reason for locking the engine to do the valve clearances but for the price of a bolt you know the engine is at TDC when you install the cam chain.
Easy to do.

[mike_h]

Thanks KPracing12, yep I agree better safe than sorry.