I'm installing a Rivco trailer hitch on my 2012 TriGlide. The rear mounting points require removing frame screws on both sides. Unfortunately on my 2012 TriGlide with V&H mufflers, the screws are under the mufflers. So, it should be easy to remove the "slip on" V&H mufflers. I soaked the joints on both sides with WD40. Then I decided to attack the right (starboard) side first. I loosened the clamps completely. And then after 1.5 hours of beating with a sledge hammer and chizzle..voila!!! The muffler with the first section of exhaust pipe came off. Then for the left (port) side, following the same process the muffler came off in about 10 minutes. Praise the God of Harley!!!

Anyhow. I'm thinking of adding never seize before putting it back together. In case I decide to add different slip ons I want to come closer to slipping off the slip ons.

Anyone have any other suggestions, on how to remove slip ons, and what to do to make it easier to slip them off in the future?

 

I have a couple of the advertised on TV adjustable clamps that have helped me in the past. If I can find a link I will post.

 

Using a well-padded strap wrench you can try to rotate the muffler to break it loose.

 

I experienced the same thing when I removed my 5 year old Rinehart slip ons. When I removed them from my 2010 Ultra I felt like I was going to have a heart attack getting the right side off. Fortunately the left side came off much easier.

 

I have never removed slip-ons or know anything about them, but I would think the anti-seize would help a ton. The other thing you could try is loosing up the clamps and then run the motor enough to heat the exhaust. Get a good set of leather or welding gloves and give it a good yank.

 

WD40 is not a very good penetrating oil. PB Blaster is the best thing I have found for dissolving rust on old truck parts. Most auto parts and hardware stores have it.

Dan

 

Hammer and chisel, really??

 

That's what I was trying to picture... and not just a hammer, but a sledgehammer.
Always use never-seize when installing slip-ons, yes. Same goes for O2 sensors in the head pipes.

 

i wrap the muffler with duct tape and then used a strap wrench and then anti-seize on joints before going back together.

 

a little heat will do the trick.