So I screwed up...
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 6,508
Likes: 169
From: WPB, FL
Testing For Leaks
Take a rag and block the end of the muffler. Don't completey seal off the muffler just, just create enough back pressure to "see" any leaks. If nothing is obvious, you're good to go.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 3,437
Likes: 15
Personally, I think you're wasting your time unless you have a leak or you just want to play around. But that is only my opinion, you should do whatever makes you feel comfortable. I have never ever used a torque wrench on exhaust flanges and have never had an issue. In fact, after reading this thread I decided it would be a good time to go out and check the pipes on my bike. A 1/4" drive ratchet, a couple extensions, a 1/2 socket, and a little twist - good as new!
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 5,173
Likes: 177
From: East Coast
The exhaust gaksets have been compressed by the intial torque; particularly if the OEM gaskets. If you back them off and re-torque to a lesser torque, you are inviting leaks. Much smarter move would be to drop the pipes, install a set of the SE stainless steel gaskets that will not compress into the port and retorque to 60-80 in. lb. per spec.
If the exhaust is leaking, you will hear it and the engine will start popping on decel.
If the exhaust is leaking, you will hear it and the engine will start popping on decel.
Road Warrior
Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 1,426
Likes: 24
From: Melbourne, Florida
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Road Warrior
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 1,907
Likes: 3
im sure all that extra money which could had been spent on other things, like chrome, was well spent on a "Professional." im silly, i want to keep as much money as i can and buy stuff for my scoot than put it in some guys pocket for doing a job i can do by reading a bookand taking my time...
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 17,548
Likes: 7,199
From: Oxford, Nc
For the rest of your life? How are you ever going to learn anything?
You think that the guys on here who know now, always knew?
I can assure you OP learned, and is smarter for it.
Someday maybe he'll rebuild his motor!
You think that the guys on here who know now, always knew?
I can assure you OP learned, and is smarter for it.
Someday maybe he'll rebuild his motor!