Exhaust Problem
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Joined: May 2007
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Exhaust Problem
I have an 06 Sportster Custom with just under 30k miles on it. I recently noticed some black dirt around where the pipe connects to the manifold. Starting with the cheapest and easiest possible causes and solutions.
1. Is there a gasket between the pipe and the manifold? Along with tightening the bolts it might be a good thing to change the gasket considering the mileage.
2. In the event that its a head gasket, can this be determined before removing the tank and pulling the rocker box covers?
1. Is there a gasket between the pipe and the manifold? Along with tightening the bolts it might be a good thing to change the gasket considering the mileage.
2. In the event that its a head gasket, can this be determined before removing the tank and pulling the rocker box covers?
Club Member
Joined: Feb 2007
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From: Boynton Beach, FloriDuh
Yes, there is a manifold gasket there and it's likely the problem. When you pull the exhaust pipe off it may not be obvious but it's in there and you usually have to dig it out of the head. When you pull the old ones out they look kinda like a ring of packed steel wool. When you replace them, it's worth it to use the Harley "SE" gaskets.
Road Warrior
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 1,278
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From: Mission,BC.Canada
If it was the head gasket, you would have an oily fluid (smells like gas) forming on your cooling fins. I just replace the head gasket on the front cylinder. It sounds more like an exhaust gasket leak. The gaskets are inexpensive and easy to replace. Sometimes you can get away with re tightening the nuts, don't over do it they can snap.
Road Master
Joined: Aug 2007
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From: Graham, NC
+1
I went with the SE's this last time and they hold together better than the stockers. If you believe the SE hype they also flow 8% more than the stockers.
I went with the SE's this last time and they hold together better than the stockers. If you believe the SE hype they also flow 8% more than the stockers.
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2008
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From: Landrum, SC , elevation 986'
+2
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I checked the two bolts holding the pipe to the manifold and one was loose. I think I will still replace the gasket on both pipes. What the heck. It's easy enough and after 30k miles a little prevention is worth it.
Does anyone know the part number for the SE gasket?
Does anyone know the part number for the SE gasket?
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