I have a 2007 Heritage Softail Classic. I am looking to buy a new exhaust. I really like the V&H duals but I have a question.

I was told by some that I could just put them on and go without having to make any changes to the air cleaner or downloads.... is that true?

 

Not true. Need to change air intake system and fuel also.

Have your dealer set it up for you.

 

The best way to go is the full Stage 1, but I am sue there are a lot of 2007 owner's that have just changed the exhaust. The 2007 air/fuel ratio is set fairly lean from the factory, to meet EPA requirements. When you open the exhaust flow up more, it will get even leaner.
Out of curiosity, I will start a poll in the "General Section" to see how many members have just changed their exhausts on the 2007/2008 bikes.
The members of this forum are a lot more knowledgeable and are more apt to do the Stage 1, then owner's that don't communicate on these type of forums. The percentage that do the Stage 1 will be a lot higher, because of that.
Tom

 

You can change-out JUST the exhaust without ill effect to your motor, and without the need to re-map or adjust air/fuel.

However, goingahead toStage 1 (exhaust, some kind of hi-flow air cleaner, and re-map or adding a fuel manager) will make you Heritage so much nicer!

[sm=icon_cheers.gif]

 

I put some Rush slip on 1.75s on my 07 FXSTC without making any other modifications. The bike ran OK, but I could tell it was just a little off. I put the stock mufflers back on and it ran fine again. I am sure a better exhaust and intake with Stage 1 is superior.

My experience is that you can "get by" with making a small change in the exhaust without doing other modifications, but doing it the right way will be far superior.

 

Actually the Rush product you installed is a good product and helps the engine breathe. However if, as you suggest, you change the intake you then will notice a real difference. Lots of air in and gases out with the right amount of pressure. Yes, you should change the fuel mgmt system to get her running great and capture the benefits of your changes.....and keep her from running too hot/lean. It is expensive to have the dealer do all of that for you but it is nothing you can't accomplish on your own with a svc. manual. I spread the cost over a few months and have had no regrets.Eventually got all the parts and then had an enjoyable weekend installing it all. I have even put the stock mufflers back on a couple of times and then I could really hear the intake working under acceleration....drawing air like an old 4 barrel..loved that sound as a kid...hell still do....

 

Like they all said, you can put on new exhust without anything else, but you should go all the way. I put the duals on my Deluxe, a K&N high flow and a V&H Fuel Pak and I love it. Shop around to find the best prices with the Air Cleaner and Fuel Pak.

Dave