Jims Tools Motorcycle

Jims Tools: The V-Twin Mechanic's Secret Weapon

When it comes to wrenching on a Harley-Davidson, generic tools often fall short. That's exactly the gap that Jims Tools was built to fill. Founded by Jim Thiessen in 1967, who was already a successful machinist within the aerospace industry, JIMS brought aerospace-grade precision thinking directly into the motorcycle garage. Beginning as an aerospace machinist who also dabbled in motorcycles, founder Jim Thiessen eventually transitioned to V-Twins full-time, responding to customer demands for high-quality, hard-to-find American-made components.

Starting with just a few manual mills and lathes, JIMS now occupies several buildings totaling 50,000 square feet filled with CNC machines — and the company is ISO 9001:2015 certified. That commitment to process and quality control is baked into every tool that leaves the facility.

Purpose-Built Motorcycle Tools, Not Afterthoughts

What makes JIMS stand apart in the motorcycle tools category is singular focus. When it comes to JIMS tools, their assortment deserves special attention — it includes virtually everything needed to rebuild or modify the motor, gearbox, or suspension of a V-Twin motorcycle. These aren't repurposed general-purpose tools; they are engineered around the specific geometry and tolerances of Harley-Davidson platforms.

JIMS builds engine and transmission internals for Harley-Davidson, plus the specialty service tools that install them — cams and cam chest components, tappets and lifters, bearings, transmission gear sets and clutch parts, and a deep line of pullers, compressors, alignment fixtures, and installation tools. The breadth of the catalog means you can tackle a job from first bolt to final torque spec without improvising.

Specific examples from the lineup illustrate just how application-specific JIMS gets: products include a Shifter Shaft Tool for 2017–2026 Harley-Davidson Touring models, a Milwaukee Eight Engine Stand for 2017–2025 Touring and Trike motorcycles, Countershaft 1st Scissor Gear Alignment Tools, and a Fork Cap Allen Socket for 2014–2025 Touring models — each designed to address a precise job that a standard socket set simply cannot handle. JIMS also offers diagnostic tools such as accurate air-fuel ratio measuring systems, compression and leak testers, and advanced electronic scanners.

Built for Life — Literally

For many years, JIMS has offered tool solutions to make work easier, faster, and safer. The JIMS R&D department prides itself on creative thinking when it comes to tool design — and the manufacturing facility backs that up with tools that are warranted for life. Each tool is meticulously crafted from durable materials like chrome vanadium steel, built to withstand the demands of heavy-duty Harley work.

JIMS also runs a unique tool submission program — when a mechanic has a great idea for a tool but has nowhere to go, JIMS steps in, turning real-world shop experience directly into catalog additions. It's a collaborative approach that keeps the line tightly tuned to actual technician needs, not just theoretical applications.

Whether you're doing routine maintenance or a full engine rebuild, the JIMS motorcycle tool lineup offers the precision, durability, and model-specific fitment that serious V-Twin work demands. Browse the full selection of Jims Tools motorcycle products to find the right tool for your next job.