So I got the cam arms out of the 96 Vmax and I do need to change the rivets for my altitude. Here is what the directions in the service manual say under "Rivet replacement steps":

1. Remove old rivet with appropriate drill
2. Insert rivet from the ID mark side
3. Press or peen the rivet head so that the diameter of the rivet head measures to 8.2mm or larger.

Okay so, 1, what would be the appropriate drill? Is this even possible with a hand drill and how do I determine the bit size?

And then what about number three? Do they mean to hit it with a hammer? Any suggestions on this? Am I better off just going in to the dealer and having them do it?

James

Seems like the only advice I've found for removing the rivets is "good luck". I destroyed my clutch weights grinding away at the rivets, and they are still all totally stuck in place. I could not get a drill to even try to start a hole in the steel rivets, not even close, doesn't even leave a mark. Even with the rivet ground down well below the surface of the weight, it's still completely frozen in place. A hammer and punch does nothing. Had to order all new weights and rivets from the dealer, way too expensive and not in stock, and it is snowing right now so I'm missing out on the last of the goodness.

Anyway, I'm still looking for advice on removing these rivets properly if anyone knows. Hopefully I'll never have to do it again. I don't think installation will be a problem, but again, experienced guidance is encouraged!

James

New sharp Cobalt bit, lots of pressure and very slow speed, spin it fast and it'll just polish. Cutting oil helps but NOT wd-40 or the likes.

New sharp Cobalt bit, lots of pressure and very slow speed, spin it fast and it'll just polish. Cutting oil helps but NOT wd-40 or the likes.
[/b]

THANK YOU! Just the specific advice I needed. Of course it's too late for my old set of weights but I might use them for practice. I actually only wrecked one. At least keep a spare for the next "learning experience".

Any advice on choosing the size of the drill bit?

BTW it took my local Yamaha powersports dealer, Action Motor Sports in Fairview Oregon, 8 days (6 business days) to get me a set of clutch weights. Good lord, do they have to ship them from Japan? Missed that snow storm AND the sunshine that followed. Mt. Hood Polaris had NEVER taken more than 4 business days to get me a special order part. MHP's service is pretty terrible though, at least at Action the empolyees are not computer-illiterate bimbos. Well I guess now I know.