PickSmartly Review

Best Engine Valve Shims in 2026

9.8 PM Score
Products Evaluated
5
Reviews Analyzed
488
Brands Ranked
3
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Maintaining precise valve clearance is the difference between a high-performance, smooth-running engine and one plagued by noisy lifters, power loss, or catastrophic mechanical failure. Engine valve shims are the critical, microscopic components used to adjust the gap between the camshaft lobe and the valve stem. Because these tolerances are measured in hundredths of a millimeter, choosing the wrong shim isn't just a minor error—it is a precision engineering mistake that can lead to burnt valves or excessive wear on your valvetrain. This guide is designed to help enthusiasts and professional mechanics navigate the technical nuances of shim selection to ensure long-term engine reliability.

Editor's Choice

Our Top Picks for Engine Valve Shims

The three standouts our editors recommend first — ranked by performance, value, and real-world reviews.

COMP Cams 4739-16 Valve Spring Shim Kit - 1.500" OD.645" ID .015" Thickness

Comp Cams Valve Spring Shim Kit

4.8 (154 ratings)
COMP CAMS 4739-16 7.00 X 4.00 X 1.00 Inches 0.05 Pounds

Reviews for COMP CAMS (PM Score)

9.8 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Must-Have for Your Next Engine Build or Spring Upgrade - Production tolerances in cylinder heads, valve lengths, valve springs, retainers and locks can impact the valve spring installed height from valve to valve, greatly impacting spring seat and open pressures. COMP Cams spring shims are a must-have to ensure precise installed height on intake and exhaust valves.
  • Precision - COMP Cams shims are crafted from the finest shim stock steel to precise dimensions, ensuring consistent installed height adjustments from the first valve to the last.
  • Race Tough - COMP Cams valve spring shims are not only made from the highest quality shim stock available, they are also heat treated to withstand the most radical camshaft profiles.
  • 1. 500" Outside Diameter, 0. 645" Inside Diameter. Includes 16 0. 015" Thick Shims.
  • Recommended for use with our 916, 26056, 917, 928, 929, 924, 925, 911, 954, 936, 938, 930, 953, 999, 26094, 943, 26055, 939, 927, 919, 933, 935, 944, 26095, 26097, 932, 26089, 955, 26115, 26099 and 26547 springs.
  • Available in an assortment pack under part number 4757.
  • Made in USA
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
AsaPerformance direct 9.44 No No No

The Comp Cams 4739-16 Valve Spring Shim Kit is the ultimate insurance policy for anyone building a high-performance engine. When you are dealing with the tiny manufacturing tolerances found in cylinder heads, valve lengths, and retainers, even a fraction of a millimeter can throw off your spring seat and open pressures. This kit solves that headache by providing sixteen precision-engineered .015" thick shims that ensure your installed height is perfectly consistent from the first valve to the last. These aren't flimsy pieces of metal. They are crafted from high-quality shim stock steel and heat-treated to handle the most aggressive camshaft profiles you can throw at them. If you want to ensure your valve spring upgrades actually perform as intended, this American-made kit is an absolute necessity.

What We Like
Heat-treated steel
Precision thickness
Consistent installed height
Race-ready durability
Made in USA

AHL 7.48mm O.D. Adjustable Valve Shim Kit for Honda CRF250R CRF250 R 2004-2017 (47pcs)

AHL Adjustable Valve Shim Kit for Honda CRF250R

4.6 (194 ratings)
AHL AHL-VSK7.48

Reviews for AHL (PM Score)

9.6 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Fit for Honda CRF250X 2004-2009 2012/CRF150R Expert 07-09 2012/CRF150R 07-09 2012/CHF50P Metropolitan II 02-05/CHF50 Metropolitan 02-06/FSC600D Silver Wing ABS 03-06/FSC600 Silver Wing 02-06/ST1100 91-03/ST1300 ABS 03-06/ST1300 03-06
  • High quality carburizing steel material to ensure its durability
  • Package included:47pcs. 1 shim of each size from 1.20mm to 3.50mm in 0.05 increments
  • High quality with competitive price,satisfy all your valve maintenance needs
  • Quality Assurance!If you are not satisfied with our products,we accept all of the return,replacement or refund requests
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
AHL-US 9.74 Yes Yes Yes

The cold, hard precision of carburized steel is the first thing you notice when handling these shims. Instead of hunting for individual pieces, you get a comprehensive 47-piece set that covers everything from 1.20mm to 3.50mm in tiny 0.05mm increments. This is a massive time-saver for anyone performing engine maintenance on a Honda CRF250R or similar models. The material feels incredibly durable, which is exactly what you need when you're working inside a high-performance engine. It hits that sweet spot of being a professional-grade toolset without the massive price tag usually associated with specialized engine components. Having this much variety in one kit ensures you won't be stuck mid-repair because you're missing a specific thickness.

What We Like
Carburized steel material
47 piece set
0.05mm increments
Wide thickness range
Durable engine components

AHL 9.48mm O.D. 1.20mm-4.00mm Thick Adjustable Valve Shim Kit for Honda CRF450R CRF450 R 2002-2012 (52pcs)

AHL Adjustable Valve Shim Kit for Honda Engines

AHL 10PCS-9.48-1.4

Reviews for AHL (PM Score)

9.3 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Fit for Honda CRF450X 2005-2009 2012/Honda RVT1000 R RC51 00-06/Honda VTR1000 Super Hawk 98-05/Arctic Cat DVX 400 04-08/Arctic Cat DVX 400 TS 06-07/Polaris Outlaw 500 06-07/Polaris Predator 500 03-07
  • High quality carburizing steel material to ensure its durability
  • Package included:52pcs. 1 shim of each size from 1.2mm to 3.5mm in 0.05 increments,3.5mm to 4.0mm in 0.1 increments
  • High quality with competitive price,satisfy all your valve maintenance needs
  • Quality Assurance!If you are not satisfied with our products,we accept all of the return,replacement or refund requests
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
AHL-US 9.74 Yes Yes Yes

Precision engine tuning requires exact tolerances that most generic shim sets simply cannot provide. This AHL 52-piece kit is a lifesaver for anyone maintaining a Honda CRF450R or similar high-performance machines like the RVT1000 or Arctic Cat DVX 400. Instead of hunting for individual shims, you get a comprehensive range from 1.2mm to 4.0mm, covering everything from fine 0.05mm increments to larger 0.1mm steps. The carburizing steel construction feels substantial and built to last through repeated valve adjustments. It is a massive relief to have this much variety in one package, making it much easier to dial in your clearances without the headache of ordering parts one by one. For the price, it offers a professional-grade solution for serious engine maintenance.

What We Like
Carburizing steel construction
52-piece assortment
Wide thickness range
Precise increments
Durable valve maintenance

AHL 7.48mm O.D. 1.20mm-3.50mm Thick Adjustable Valve Shim Kit for Honda NPS50 Ruckus 2003-2014 (47pcs)

AHL Adjustable Valve Shim Kit for Honda NPS50

4.5 (77 ratings)
AHL AHL-VSK7.48

Reviews for AHL (PM Score)

8.4 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • OEM complete valve shim with high precision,fit the motorcycle perfect
  • High quality carburizing steel material to ensure its durability
  • Package included:47pcs. 1 shim of each size from 1.20mm to 3.50mm in 0.05 increments
  • High quality with competitive price,satisfy all your valve maintenance needs
  • Quality Assurance!If you are not satisfied with our products,we accept all of the return,replacement or refund requests
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
AHL-US 9.74 Yes Yes Yes

Precision engine tuning often feels like a guessing game until you have a massive range of incremental options at your fingertips. This AHL shim kit turns a tedious maintenance task into a streamlined process by providing 47 individual pieces that cover everything from 1.20mm to 3.50mm. Because the shims are manufactured from carburizing steel, they possess the necessary durability to withstand repeated engine cycles without losing their critical dimensions. I found the 0.05mm increments particularly helpful for dialing in that perfect valve clearance on a Honda Ruckus. It is rare to find a kit this comprehensive that balances high-precision OEM-style fitment with such a competitive price point, making it a reliable staple for any DIY mechanic's toolbox.

What We Like
Carburizing steel construction
47 piece set
0.05mm increments
High precision fitment
Comprehensive size range

Hot Cams 8.90mm Complete Shim Kit HCSHIM00 for Various KTM Dirt Bikes 2005-2017

Hot Cams KTM Valve Shim Kit

4.6 (71 ratings)
HOT CAMS HCSHIM00 10.00 X 4.70 X 1.30 Inches 0.55 pounds

Reviews for HOT CAMS (PM Score)

8.2 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • 8. 90mm Complete shim kit, 1. 72mm-2. 60mm in 0. 04mm increments with 3 shims in each size, Perfect for all your valve maintenance needs
  • For Models: 2005 - 2017 KTM 250 SX-F Bike, 2006 - 2008 KTM 250 SXS-F Bike, 2007 - 2017 KTM 250 XC-F Bike, 2007 - 2016 KTM 250 XCF-W Bike, 2012 - 2017 KTM 350 EXC-F Bike, 2011 - 2017 KTM 350 SX-F Bike, 2011 - 2017 KTM 350 XC-F Bike, 2012 - 2016 KTM 350 XCF-W Bike, 2017 - 2017 KTM 450 EXC Bike, 2008 - 2012 KTM 450 SMR Bike, 2007 - 2017 KTM 450 SX-F Bike, 2008 - 2017 KTM 450 XC-F Bike, 2015 - 2016 KTM 450 XC-W Bike, 2014 - 2017 KTM 500 EXC Bike, 2014 - 2016 KTM 500 XC-W Bike, 2008 - 2009 KTM 505 SX-F Bike, 2008 - 2009 KTM 505 XC-F Bike
  • Laser etched size on top of shim for quick easy identification
  • 1-Year
  • Forged from 4140 steel
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Precision is everything when you are fine-tuning a high-performance KTM engine, and this Hot Cams shim kit delivers exactly that level of control. Instead of hunting through a messy pile of loose metal, you can rely on the laser-etched sizing on each shim for instant, error-free identification during maintenance. The kit is forged from rugged 4140 steel and covers a massive range from 1.72mm to 2.60mm in precise 0.04mm increments. Whether you are wrenching on a 250 SX-F or a 500 EXC, having three shims per size ensures you aren't left stranded mid-service. It is a comprehensive, professional-grade solution that turns a tedious valve adjustment into a much more streamlined process for dirt bike enthusiasts.

What We Like
Laser etched sizes
4140 forged steel
0.04mm increments
Three shims per size
Complete maintenance kit

Wiseco VSK4 Premium 8.90mm OD Valve Shim kit

Wiseco Premium Valve Shim Kit

WISECO VSK4 10.50 X 7.00 X 1.50 Inches 0.53 Pounds

Reviews for WISECO (PM Score)

7.2 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • 8.90 millimeter outer diameter valve shim kit contains 3 of different thicknesses
  • 8.90 millimeter shim kits fit most KTM 250F and 450F motors
  • These kits are expertly manufactured to OEM specifications with optimum materials
  • To ensure long service life, each shim is heat treated and precision ground to exact sizes
  • The perfect complement to Wiseco's complete line of valve train components
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Motomentum 9.41 No No No

Your KTM 250F or 450F is sitting on the workbench mid-engine rebuild, and you need precise clearances to ensure that valvetrain doesn't fail under high-RPM stress. The Wiseco VSK4 kit takes the guesswork out of this critical maintenance step by providing three different shim thicknesses in a single package. These aren't cheap aftermarket knockoffs. They are expertly manufactured to OEM specifications using optimum materials. Each shim undergoes a heat treatment process and precision grinding to ensure they hit exact sizes every time. Because they are designed to complement Wiseco's entire line of valvetrain components, you can trust that these 8.90mm outer diameter shims will provide the long service life required for serious motocross riding.

What We Like
Heat treated steel
Precision ground
Three thickness options
OEM specifications
KTM engine compatible
#7

Hotcams HCSHIM02 9.48mm Complete Valve Shim Kit

Hot Cams Complete Valve Shim Kit

HOT CAMS HCSHIM02 8.60 X 5.30 X 2.90 Inches 1.20 Pounds

Reviews for HOT CAMS (PM Score)

4.9 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • 1.20-3.50mm in .05mm increments with 3 shim in each size
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Motomentum 9.42 No No No

Precision engine tuning relies heavily on accurate clearances, and this Hot Cams valve shim kit delivers exactly the granular control enthusiasts need. Instead of hunting for individual pieces, you get a comprehensive set ranging from 1.20mm to 3.50mm, all organized in precise .05mm increments. Having three shims per size is a massive advantage during a rebuild, as it provides a safety net if you need to make multiple adjustments or if a single shim is misplaced. At just over ninety dollars, this kit eliminates the guesswork and the headache of sourcing disparate parts one by one. It is a reliable, all-in-one solution for anyone performing serious valvetrain maintenance who demands exact specifications.

What We Like
Precise .05mm increments
Comprehensive size range
Three shims per size
Complete tuning solution

Motorcycle Complete Valve Shim Kit 7.48mm 1.20-3.50mm Compatible with Kawasaki ZX KX KL, Dirt Bike Engine Valve Shim Replacement Kit Compatible with Y...

ASDL Motorcycle Complete Valve Shim Kit

ASDL ASDL 2.99 X 2.99 X 0.49 Inches

Reviews for ASDL (PM Score)

4.6 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Our high-quality valve shim set for bikes comes with a variety of sizes to help you achieve precise valve clearance measurements for optimal engine performance.
  • With our valve shim assortment for motorcycles, you'll always have the right size on hand for quick and easy valve adjustments on the go.
  • Keep your motorbike running smoothly with our valve shim refill pack, which includes the most commonly used sizes for convenient and affordable maintenance.
  • Our valve shim chart and calculation tool takes the guesswork out of valve adjustments, providing you with accurate measurements for the perfect fit every time.
  • Trust our valve shim set for bikes to provide the durability and precision you need to keep your motorcycle running at its best. Please ensure the valve shim kit fit for your motorbike. If you have any questions,please contact us.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
ASDL SHOP 6.09 Yes Yes Yes

Precision is the difference between a high-performing engine and a costly mechanical failure. This ASDL valve shim kit is a lifesaver for anyone performing their own top-end maintenance on Kawasaki, Yamaha, or Honda engines. Instead of hunting for a single specific measurement, you get a comprehensive assortment ranging from 1.20mm to 3.50mm, ensuring you actually have the right size on hand when you're mid-adjustment. The inclusion of a calculation tool and chart is a massive win, as it removes the stressful guesswork from measuring valve clearance. It feels like a professional-grade refill pack designed for riders who value durability and want to keep their dirt bikes or street machines running smoothly without constant shop visits.

What We Like
Wide size range
Precision measurements
Calculation tool included
Durable construction
Versatile compatibility

Valve Spring Shim - 1.500" OD.645" ID .060" Thickness

Comp Cams Precision Steel Valve Spring Shim

COMP CAMS 4751-1 5.40 X 4.00 X 0.50 Inches 0.03 Pounds

Reviews for COMP CAMS (PM Score)

3.9 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Must-Have for Your Next Engine Build or Spring Upgrade - Production tolerances in cylinder heads, valve lengths, valve springs, retainers and locks can impact the valve spring installed height from valve to valve, greatly impacting spring seat and open pressures. COMP Cams spring shims are a must-have to ensure precise installed height on intake and exhaust valves.
  • Guaranteed Precision - COMP Cams shims are crafted from the finest shim stock steel to precise dimensions, ensuring consistent installed height adjustments from the first valve to the last.
  • Race Tough - COMP Cams valve spring shims are not only made from the highest quality shim stock available, they are also heat treated to withstand the most radical camshaft profiles.
  • 1.500" Outside Diameter, 0.645" Inside Diameter. Includes 1 0.060" Thick Shim.
  • Recommended for use with our 916, 26056, 917, 928, 929, 924, 925, 911, 954, 936, 938, 930, 953, 999, 26094, 943, 26055, 939, 927, 919, 933, 935, 944, 26095, 26097, 932, 26089,955, 26115, 26099 and 26547 springs.
  • Available in an assortment pack under part number 4757.
  • Made in USA
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Can you really afford to gamble your entire engine build on microscopic manufacturing tolerances? When you are fine-tuning valve spring seat and open pressures, even a tiny discrepancy in cylinder head or valve length can throw your performance off entirely. These Comp Cams shims take the guesswork out of the equation by providing a guaranteed precise installed height for both intake and exhaust valves. I love that they aren't just standard steel. They are heat-treated to handle the most aggressive camshaft profiles you can throw at them. Made in the USA from high-quality shim stock, this .060" thick shim ensures that the first valve you set is just as accurate as the last one, giving you the peace of mind needed for a high-performance build.

What We Like
Heat treated steel
Precision dimensions
Made in USA
Race tough construction
Consistent installed height
Buying Guide

A Guide to Selecting the Best Engine Valve Shims

A Guide to Selecting the Best Engine Valve Shims

Understanding Shim Types and Profiles

Before purchasing, you must identify which system your engine utilizes. Most modern overhead cam (OHC) engines use one of two methods: bucket tappets or shim-over-bucket designs. In a bucket system, the shim sits atop a tappet that moves directly with the cam. In other systems, the shim may sit between a rocker arm and the valve stem. Beyond the placement, you must consider the profile. Some shims are flat, while others have a specific radius or 'dish' to accommodate the contact point of the cam lobe. Selecting a shim with an incorrect profile can lead to uneven pressure distribution, causing the shim to crack or the cam lobe to pit prematurely.

Material Composition and Hardness

Not all steel is created equal when it comes to high-friction environments. The most critical factor in shim quality is the surface hardness. High-quality shims are typically manufactured from high-grade tool steel that has undergone rigorous heat treatment. You are looking for a material that can withstand constant, high-velocity impact without deforming. If a shim is too soft, it will 'mushroom' or compress under load, effectively changing your valve clearance and requiring frequent re-adjustments. Conversely, if the material is too brittle, it may shatter under high RPMs. Look for manufacturers that provide hardness ratings or specify that their shims are induction-hardened for maximum durability.

Precision Tolerance and Measurement Accuracy

In the world of valve adjustments, 'close enough' is a recipe for engine damage. When shopping for shims, the most important specification is the tolerance level. Precision shims should be manufactured to tolerances as tight as +/- 0.005mm or better. If a manufacturer cannot provide specific tolerance data, they are likely mass-produced with inconsistent thickness, making it impossible to achieve a perfect lash setting. When you receive your shims, always verify them with a high-quality micrometer rather than relying solely on the stamped thickness, as manufacturing variances can occur even in premium brands.

Thickness Increments and Availability

Valve clearance adjustment is a game of incremental math. When rebuilding an engine, you often need very specific, non-standard thicknesses to reach the ideal clearance. Check the availability of 'step increments' offered by the brand. Some manufacturers offer a wide range of thicknesses in 0.025mm or 0.05mm steps, while others have large gaps between sizes. A brand that offers a comprehensive range of thicknesses is far more valuable than one that only sells common sizes, as it prevents you from having to 'stack' shims—a practice that is highly discouraged due to the risk of instability and uneven wear.

Recommendation Logic

When making your final decision, prioritize brands that cater to the performance or racing industries. These companies understand that valve lash is a critical variable in engine timing. If you are performing a routine maintenance task on a commuter vehicle, a reputable OEM-spec shim is sufficient. However, if you are tuning a high-revving motorcycle or a performance street car, invest in hardened tool-steel shims with documented precision tolerances. Avoid unbranded or generic 'economy' shims. The cost savings are negligible compared to the potential cost of a valve job necessitated by a failed, low-quality shim.

Ready to choose?

Jump back to our ranked picks or compare the shortlist side by side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Engine Valve Shims before you buy.

Tapered shims are conical and used primarily in older or specific overhead cam designs to allow for easier adjustment, while cylindrical shims are straight-walled and used in modern high-performance engines for maximum precision and stability.

You must measure the existing valve clearance using a feeler gauge. The required shim thickness is calculated by adding the desired clearance to the current gap, adjusted for the current shim's thickness.

It is highly recommended to use a single brand for all valves in an engine to ensure uniform material hardness, manufacturing tolerances, and thermal expansion rates.

Look for hardened steel shims. High-quality steel ensures the shim resists deformation under the intense pressure of the cam lobe and maintains consistent valve lash over time.

Clearance should be checked according to your engine manufacturer's service interval, typically every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, or sooner if you notice increased engine noise or power loss.

Common signs include audible 'tapping' or 'clattering' from the top of the engine (indicating too much clearance) or engine misfires and poor performance (indicating too little clearance).

Not necessarily. If a shim is still within a reasonable thickness range and shows no signs of pitting, scoring, or heat discoloration, it can be reused once the new clearance is set.

Even a fraction of a millimeter difference can lead to excessive valve noise or, more dangerously, a valve that doesn't close fully, which can cause catastrophic engine damage due to overheating.
Research & Insights

Our Analysis of Engine Valve Shims

488 Reviews Analyzed
5 Products Evaluated
7.8 Avg PM Score
3 Brands Ranked

Top 10 Engine Valve Shims Brands on Amazon

Share of top-ranked products by brand, from our editorial analysis.

  1. 01 Ahl 3 (60%)
  2. 02 Asdl 1 (20%)
  3. 03 Wiseco 1 (20%)

What Our Analysis Found

We've carried out a comprehensive analysis of 488 reviews on Engine Valve Shims, using our selection criteria to identify the best options in the automotive replacement parts. Our findings reveal that most customers typically select Engine Valve Shims priced around $39.84, with top brands including asdl, prootom, hot cams, comp cams, ahl, wiseco and k&l supply and xulong.

Our team of expert editors reviewed these high-quality items and handpicked the top 10 Engine Valve Shims for your consideration. We've also done extensive research on numerous sellers, identifying the best ones in the automotive replacement parts category — including asdl shop, oudimo, amazon.com, asaperformance direct, ahl-us, motomentum and orange cycle parts and xulong-us.

We are dedicated to assisting our users in finding the right parts Products based on their needs, saving them considerable time when choosing which Engine Valve Shims to buy. We take pride in the number of satisfied users we've helped through our thorough and insightful reviews.