I was just curious what most thought about replacing the gasket when swapping out pipes. If the pipes are changed pretty much immediately off the showroom floor, should it require a new set of gaskets, or since they should be new already could the originals be reused? Also, is there a particular gasket brand that is recommended over others?

 

I will let someone else comment about reusing gaskets but make sure you are using the right type of gaskets for the new pipes - flat or the flared type. My OEM pipes used the flared type, but my Bassani RR pipes required the flat type.

 

I put Vance & Hines sideshots on my SG and the directions recommended Screaming Eagle gaskets. Used the SE gaskets and no problems. Gaskets aren't that expensive, why test murph's law.

 

New gaskets are insurance that there will not bea leak. The gaskets are crush gaskets.

 

+1. I went with the factory Harley gaskets. At $11 for two gaskets, it's cheap insurance.

 

I agree with all the posters. Cheap part and since you have the pipes off replace the gaskets because the heat shields were a mother to put back on. I tried the SE gaskets and ended up putting the stockers on with my V&H SSS.. One thing to remember is the torque settings..

 

If taking off and refitting the same exhaust then I reuse the gaskets. If its a different exhaust then I always use new gaskets. The gaskets crush to the shape of the exhaust end and this is pretty much always different between systems.

 

I don't know what pipes your interested in. But Vance and Hines pipes come with new gaskets, so why not change them...

 

I got the straight shots and they didn't come w gaskets.

 

Mine came with new gaskets presumably designed for the pipes.

As someone else mentioned, be sure you torque to the service manual specs. I missed one nut and had a leak. Went away after torquing correctly.