The bike has been popping a lot lately, sure enough, header gasket is fried. I'm going try the doubled-up screamin eagle gaskets just for *****, and I'm going to use Permatex Copper Gasket sealant, so my question is how do you apply it?

Do you insert the gasket, then apply on the gasket edge, then put the header in? Or just outside of the header and slide her in? Do you clamp everything down while it's setting or wait 24 hours to set, then clamp down?

Seems simple, but don't want to fluff it...i've Googled and searched but everyone has an opinion on WHAT to use, not HOW to use it.

 

The only place I have ever used it is where the muffler meets the headpipe. I wouldn't use it on the gaskets...If they are properly torqued, you don't need any sealer...

 

what he said

 

Maybe try using the conical style gaskets from Harley.
I use them and I have plenty of flow and power with my SuperTrapp Mean Mothers. The conical style gaskets form to the contours of the head pipe for a good seal.

 

That's what I used on the install. They're just such a bitch to get seated, I probably over-torqued too...

 

Yep. Go snug, ride it for a bit, snug it up again and you are good...The screaming eagles work great too. You need to look at the taper of the head pipe. If it is not tapered (like most aftermarket) I prefer the SE. On the stock one, I would use the stock seals...

 

Hmm...you guys say absolutely no? Ive come across a few threads that people swear by it, and I would think you'd get a better seal. The below thread (thought not Harley related) is the same idea. Some people talking about ditching gaskets all together...

http://www.vintagesledders.com/forum...?topic=10815.0