First Major Mod Done Myself
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Joined: Aug 2010
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From: NH
First Major Mod Done Myself
I removed the stock exhaust and installed V&H BSS on my Lo this weekend. I know its not a major mod to some, but this is the first big mod I decided to do myself. The only prior experience I had was installing the rear directional re-location kit (that was a nightmare because I really didn't know what I was doing, but if I ever do it again it'll be cake) and installing the stage 1 air filter and fuelpak(that was as easy as it gets).
If you have never done anything like this before (which I hadn't), I have some strong advice for you: THE RIGHT TOOLS. The wrench set from high school doesn't cut it and the variety of torx and hex wrenches needed to do the job right means you need to look exactly what you are doing and take inventory.
Once I had the good quality and right tools it wasn't that hard. I took my time, carefully followed the directions, and made sure everything was tight, clean, and dry before I fired it up. I paid for the dealership to put on my handlebars and I have to say it is much more satisfying doing the work yourself (although I highly doubt I have the skills, time, or knowledge to tackle handlebars). I admit though, I do find myself wondering if the O2 censors are falling out or if the rear bracket is getting loose while riding. As I continue to work maybe I'll start having more faith in my ability but for now I'll just keep checking everything before I fire her up. Thanks to everyone on the forum, there is a "plethora" of knowledge shared here
If you have never done anything like this before (which I hadn't), I have some strong advice for you: THE RIGHT TOOLS. The wrench set from high school doesn't cut it and the variety of torx and hex wrenches needed to do the job right means you need to look exactly what you are doing and take inventory.
Once I had the good quality and right tools it wasn't that hard. I took my time, carefully followed the directions, and made sure everything was tight, clean, and dry before I fired it up. I paid for the dealership to put on my handlebars and I have to say it is much more satisfying doing the work yourself (although I highly doubt I have the skills, time, or knowledge to tackle handlebars). I admit though, I do find myself wondering if the O2 censors are falling out or if the rear bracket is getting loose while riding. As I continue to work maybe I'll start having more faith in my ability but for now I'll just keep checking everything before I fire her up. Thanks to everyone on the forum, there is a "plethora" of knowledge shared here
Road Master
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 784
Likes: 10
From: SE Pennsylvania
You've tackled more than I have....I added slip-ons, but not a full set before. You nailed it right on the head; you need the correct tools for the job. No question. If you try and make do with something less, you'll end up spending twice as much.
Cruiser
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 163
Likes: 0
Looks sharp. Good work.
What tools did you have to buy? I have been building up a tool set specific to the bike and will probably be taking on this job soon.
Thanks
What tools did you have to buy? I have been building up a tool set specific to the bike and will probably be taking on this job soon.
Thanks
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Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 67
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From: NH
tools
I had to buy a quality set of torx and hex wrenches. Really, for just the exhaust I used one torx wrench for the passenger peg (which was also an attachment point for the stock exhaust bracket) and one hex for loosening the driver floorboard.
The biggest pain was that without that one hex and that one torx I wouldn't have been able to finish the job. I guess I didn't "need" a set of each but the torx and hex wrenches are cheaper in sets than individually and I do plan on using more of them in the future.
