Best Performance Engine Valve Shims of 2026

Robert Reyes Avatar
Robert Reyes
Last Updated: Jan 7, 2026

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Performance engine valve shims are an essential component for any high-performance engine build. These small metal discs are designed to fit between the camshaft and valve stem, allowing for precise valve clearance adjustment. This adjustment is crucial for ensuring maximum power and efficiency, as well as reducing the risk of engine damage from valve-to-piston contact. Performance valve shims are available in a variety of thicknesses and materials to suit different engine configurations and performance goals. Whether you're building a race engine or simply looking to improve the performance of your daily driver, quality valve shims are a must-have component.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

COMP Cams Valve Spring Shims 4751-100 Cover #TOP 1
COMP Cams Valve Spring Shims 4751-100
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Specialty Products Company 89499 Break Away Axle Shim Cover #TOP 2
Specialty Products Company 89499 Break Away Axle Shim
ftb score rating icon 9.8
SPC FRTLNR Shim 1/16in. Cover #TOP 3
SPC FRTLNR Shim 1/16in.
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Performance Engine Valve Shims

#TOP 1

COMP Cams Valve Spring Shims 4751-100

4751-100
Black
Extra Large
COMP Cams Valve Spring Shims 4751-100 Cover
COMP Cams 4751-100 Set of 100 Valve Spring Shims - 1.500" OD, .645" ID .060" Thick

COMP Cams Valve Shims are essential for achieving accurate valve spring heights in your engine build. These shims are made from high-quality shim stock steel, ensuring that you can adjust the installed height of your valves with precision. This is crucial, as even small variations can greatly affect performance. Additionally, the shims are heat-treated to handle extreme camshaft profiles, providing durability in high-performance applications. With a consistent thickness, you can be confident that every shim will deliver the same reliable performance, making your installation process smoother and more efficient.

What We Like
Precision height adjustments
Durable heat-treated material
Consistent performance across all shims
Essential for engine builds
#TOP 2

Specialty Products Company 89499 Break Away Axle Shim

Specialty Products Company 89499 Break Away Axle Shim Cover
Specialty Products Company 89499 2° Break Away Axle Shim, (Pack of 6)

The Specialty Products Break Away Shim is designed to fit axle widths of 3 to 4 inches, giving you flexibility for different setups. Made from heavy-duty zinc alloy, this shim offers strong durability and resistance to wear, ensuring it lasts through tough conditions. Its center web design helps keep the shim stable by preventing it from spreading, which means a secure fit and better performance for your vehicle. Additionally, the double breakaway feature provides extra protection by allowing the shim to break away under stress, helping to avoid damage to other parts. This shim is a reliable choice to maintain your axle's integrity and performance.

What We Like
Fits multiple axle widths
Durable zinc alloy material
Center web prevents spreading
Double breakaway protection
#TOP 3

SPC FRTLNR Shim 1/16in.

35061
metal
1/16 inch
SPC FRTLNR Shim 1/16in. Cover
Specialty Products Company FRTLNR Shim 1/16"(6) 35061

The SPC Shim 1/16in. is designed for versatility, providing universal compatibility for your heavy-duty tandem trucks and trailers. By installing these shims at the ends of torque rods, you can easily adjust the toe and thrust angles, enhancing vehicle handling and stability. This feature is particularly beneficial for ensuring better tire wear and improved alignment. With a quantity of six, you have enough shims to make necessary adjustments, maximizing convenience and efficiency in your maintenance routine. Whether you drive a Freightliner, Hendrickson, or Navistar, these shims offer a practical solution for your vehicle's performance needs.

What We Like
Universal compatibility
Improved vehicle handling
Enhanced tire wear
Convenient quantity of six
#TOP 4

SPC 47173 Rear Shim for GM

SPC 47173 Rear Shim for GM Cover
Specialty Products Company 47173 1/8" Rear Shim for GM, (Pack of 6)

The SPC Rear Shim for GM is a pack of 6 shims designed specifically to adjust the rear toe on older Corvette models. With a thickness of 1/8 inch, these shims provide precise alignment and help improve the overall handling and performance of your vehicle. Whether you are a Corvette enthusiast or a professional mechanic, these shims offer a convenient solution for fine-tuning the rear toe of your Chevrolet Corvette between the years 1963 and 1982. With the SPC Rear Shim for GM, you can easily achieve the desired toe adjustment and ensure optimal driving experience on the road or track.

What We Like
Precise alignment
Improved handling
Convenient solution
#TOP 5

SPC Performance FRTLNR Shim 1/8in.

SPC Performance FRTLNR Shim 1/8in. Cover
Specialty Products Company SPC Performance FRTLNR Shim 1/8in. (6)

The SPC Performance Shim is designed to enhance the performance of heavy-duty trucks and trailers, specifically those from Freightliner, Hendrickson, and Navistar. These universal shims are installed at the ends of torque rods, allowing you to easily adjust toe and thrust angles. This adjustment can lead to improved vehicle handling and tire wear, ensuring a smoother ride for you. With a quantity of six, these shims provide ample supplies for multiple adjustments, making them a convenient choice for maintaining your fleet's performance.

What We Like
Universal compatibility
Improves handling
Adjustable thrust angles
Convenient six-pack
#TOP 6

Specialty Products Company 89699 Break Away Axle Shim

Specialty Products Company 89699 Break Away Axle Shim Cover
Specialty Products Company 89699 3° Break Away Axle Shim, (Pack of 6)

The Specialty Products Break Away Shim is designed to fit widths of 3, 3.5, and 4 inches, giving you flexibility for different axle setups. Made from heavy-duty zinc alloy, this shim offers strong durability to withstand tough conditions. Its center web design helps prevent the shim from spreading, ensuring a secure fit and reliable performance. Additionally, the double breakaway feature provides extra safety by allowing controlled separation under stress. This means you can trust the shim to maintain axle alignment and protect your equipment during heavy use.

What We Like
Multiple width options
Durable zinc alloy
Center web support
Double breakaway safety
#TOP 7

Yukon Gear & Axle Dana 44 Shim Kit

SK 706376
No Color
One Size
Yukon Gear & Axle Dana 44 Shim Kit Cover
Dana 44 Complete Shim Kit Replacement

The Yukon Dana 44 Shim Kit is designed to provide a complete set of shims specifically for the Dana Spicer 44 axle. This kit helps you easily replace worn or damaged shims, which are essential for maintaining proper engine valve clearance. With this kit, you can ensure precise adjustments that keep your engine running smoothly and efficiently. By using a full replacement set, you save time and avoid the hassle of sourcing individual parts. The quality and compatibility with the Dana 44 axle make it a convenient choice for anyone looking to maintain or repair their vehicle’s valve system.

What We Like
Complete shim set
Specifically for Dana 44
Maintains valve clearance
Easy replacement
Reliable brand
#TOP 8

Specialty Products Company 89399 Break Away Axle Shim

Specialty Products Company 89399 Break Away Axle Shim Cover
Specialty Products Company 89399 1-1/2° Break Away Axle Shim, (Pack of 6)

The Specialty Products Break Away Shim is designed with versatility in mind, offering widths of 3, 3.5, and 4 inches to fit various applications. Made from heavy-duty zinc alloy, it ensures durability and long-lasting performance. The shim features a center web that helps prevent the axle from spreading, maintaining stability and safety during use. Additionally, it includes a double breakaway design, providing extra protection by allowing controlled separation under extreme conditions. These features combine to give you a reliable and sturdy shim that enhances the safety and effectiveness of your axle setup.

What We Like
Multiple width options
Durable zinc alloy material
Center web for stability
Double breakaway safety
#TOP 9

Specialty Products Company 89199 Break Away Axle Shim

Specialty Products Company 89199 Break Away Axle Shim Cover
Specialty Products Company 89199 1/2° Break Away Axle Shim, (Pack of 6)

The Specialty Break Away Axle Shim is designed to fit widths ranging from 3 to 4 inches, giving you flexibility to match your specific axle size. Made from heavy-duty zinc alloy, this shim offers strong durability and resistance to wear, ensuring long-lasting performance. Its center web feature helps prevent the shim from spreading, keeping everything securely in place during use. Additionally, the double breakaway design provides added safety by allowing controlled separation when needed, giving you peace of mind during tough conditions. This product is a reliable choice for maintaining your vehicle’s axle integrity.

What We Like
Adjustable width sizes
Durable zinc alloy material
Center web for stability
Double breakaway safety
#TOP 10

Specialty Products Company 10512 Aluminum Alloy 3x6x1° Shims (6-Pack)

Specialty Products Company 10512 Aluminum Alloy 3x6x1° Shims (6-Pack) Cover
Specialty Products Company 10512 3" x 6" x 1° Aluminum Alloy Shim, (Pack of 6)

The Specialty Products 3x6 Shims are designed to help you with precise adjustments, especially for truck axles. Made from sturdy aluminum alloy, these shims offer durability and resistance to corrosion, ensuring they last through tough conditions. Their specific size of 3 inches by 6 inches with a 1-degree angle provides the perfect fit for your needs, allowing for accurate alignment and spacing. Plus, they come in a convenient pack of six, so you have enough pieces to complete your project or keep as spares. These shims make your work easier and more reliable by offering consistent quality and fit.

What We Like
Durable aluminum alloy
Precise 3x6 inch size
1-degree angle for accuracy
Pack of six shims
Ideal for truck axles
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What do engine shims do?

Engine shims are used in automobiles to adjust the clearance or space between two parts. They are commonly inserted into or under bucket tappets to control valve clearances by changing the thickness of the shim.

2. Are valve spring shims necessary?

Yes, valve spring shims are necessary for adjusting the height if needed. This step is critical to ensure proper engine performance and to prevent any issues.

3. What is the purpose of shimming valve springs?

Shimming valve springs helps maintain the same characteristics of the valve train while retaining the lost seat pressure from cutting the seat or wear. It ensures optimal valve performance and prevents any potential issues.

4. Are valve shims reusable?

Yes, valve shims are reusable as long as they are in good condition and measure correctly. Since they suffer no fatigue or wear, there should be no issue using them multiple times.

5. How often should I shim my valves?

The general rule of thumb is to shim the valves twice. It is important to work up to the final torque gradually and check valve clearance to ensure proper adjustment.

6. What are the benefits of shims?

Shims provide support and help make adjustments for a better fit or to provide a level surface. They are used to fill small gaps or spaces between objects, improving overall performance and reliability.

7. Why is it better to use as few shims as possible?

Using as few shims as possible is recommended to avoid soft foot and excessive wear. Three pre-cut shims are usually sufficient, and using too many shims can cause additional problems.

8. What will weak valve springs do?

Weak or broken valve springs can cause various drivability and performance issues. They can result in excessive valve noise, compression loss, and even severe internal engine damage.

9. Why should I upgrade valve springs?

Upgrading valve springs with higher ratings of seat pressure, open pressure, and max lift improves valve control and enhances engine reliability, preventing potential problems.

10. Can shims be permanent?

Depending on the type and application, shims can be either permanent or removable. When used to fill gaps or level items, they tend to be more permanent.

11. Can you use washers as shims?

While washers and shims have similar purposes and may sometimes be interchangeable, shims are primarily used as spacers, while washers are commonly used to distribute load for threaded fasteners.

Editor's Notes

During our performance engine valve shim research, we found 24 performance engine valve shim products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 6,249 customer reviews through our big data system to write the performance engine valve shims list. We found that most customers choose performance engine valve shims with an average price of $82.08.

The performance engine valve shims are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of performance engine valve shims, including Comp Cams, Specialty Products Company, Yukon Gear & Axle. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Robert Reyes Avatar

Robert Reyes is a dedicated writer from San Francisco with a bachelor of degree in mechanics and a bachelor of degree in marketing. He focuses on making some complicated topics simple and enjoys explaining complex and technical things in an easy-to-understand way.