Does anyone know if the clamps that hold the mufflers to the head pipeshave a useful life? I"ve had the mufflers off the bike a couple of times over the past few weeks and I can't get them to tighten up now.

Thanks for the help

Rich

 

I just had to replace the clamp on the left side. The useful life is about two removals. After that they don't hold tension. Got two replacements at the dealership for $18.00. I've been told on the forum that the Harley clamps are about the best you can get.

 

Thanks Eric. Thought so.

 

I haved since learned to replace anytime they are removed. They never seem to be as good as the first use.

 

I have the same problem on the left side, as well, after only having it off once. Mineseems to stay tight for a while then will loosen up a little bit... not enough for the muffler to move by itself, but enough that I can twist it by hand. I've been carrying a socket with me, just in case.

 

For what it's worth, the service manual says to replace them anytime you remove the mufflers (they're called TORCA clamps). They appear to be made to apply even clamping pressure all around, and are supposed to be torqued to 45-60 ft. lbs. Yeah, they run $8-9 each from the stealer, but would seem to eliminate your problem.

 

the problem is the design of the stock clamps...look at it...there's a limiter between the clamping ends...what a dumbass thing to do...go to a hydralic hose supplier and ask for a T-BOLT CLAMP.....2 of em less than 10 bucks...it will clamp with no rattles...it will out clamp the stock crap

 

Isn't the limiter designed so you don't crush the pipe from over tightening ?