When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Did you guys replace the gaskets where the head pipes bolt to the engine, when you changed out your exhaust? They are little meshy gaskets, kind of like steel wool. I did not b/c my bike was only 2 months old and the dealer said I should not need to. However, I am getting ready to install a PCIII and get a dyno tune and I am trying to make sure all other parts of my exhaust system, air intake, etc. are sound.
Yeah, Ireplaced the gasketswhen I installed my V&H straight shots...as new as they were it was probably not necessary but I've made it a habit toalways replace all the gaskets/sealson anything I disassemble/re-assemble (particularly if there's fluid involved)
Mine also had 500 miles. I tested the seal today using smoke around the header pipe with the engine started. There was no disruption in the smoke to indicate a leak, so I guess I am okay.
I didn't the first couple of times I had the stock exhaust off, but when I put the V&H pipes on, the dealer suggested new gaskets, screaming eagle. Just recheck the torque after a 100 miles or so.
He asked what exhaust system was going on the bike, so i'm guessing there is a slight differance between flanges, as this gasket seems thinner than the origanal.
Any tips or tricks to getting the new exhaust gaskets in? I've replaced several times on different bikes, and I always fight with getting the gaskets seated in the head without totally destroying them...
I always replace the exhaust gaskets whenever I disrupt them...cheap insurance for $10.00 so I don't have to do the job twice! I have two sets as a "hot standby" in my tool chest drawer.
Yes, I replaced the originals with SE gaskets when I put on my new pipes. I had about 2k miles when I switched pipes. I'm no mechanic, but I always change gaskets when removing or replacing parts - I replaced the gasket when I changed out my derby cover as well.
7 Surprising Harley-Davidson Products that Are Not Motorcycles
Slideshow: The bar-and-shield logo shows up on far more than motorcycles, some of the company's most unexpected products have nothing to do with riding.
Slideshow: From the troubled AMF years to modern misfires, these bikes earned reputations for reliability issues, questionable engineering, or disappointing performance.
Crazy Bunderbike Build Looks Amazing, But Is It Impossible to Ride?
Slideshow: The Swiss custom shop has taken a Harley Softail and stretched it into something so long and low that it looks closer to a rolling sculpture than a conventional motorcycle.
Engraved Rebellion: Inside Bundnerbike's Glam Rock II
Slideshow: A standard cruiser becomes an intricate metal canvas in the hands of a Swiss custom house known for pushing Harley-Davidson platforms far beyond their factory brief.
Slideshow: Harley-Davidson's challenges aren't abstract; they show up in dropping shipments, shrinking dealer traffic, and strategic decisions that aren't yet translating into growth.