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Headers not sealing??

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Old Mar 1, 2016 | 08:34 PM
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Default Headers not sealing??
Installed a set of Power Duals and haven't been able to ride since installing them due to weather. I used OEM Screamin Eagle gaskets, torqued properly and flashed the proper map too. I can't feel anything near the port while idling but tonight I started it and with the lights out in the garage I noticed the front header pipe glowing a bit red at idle. I ran it for 5-10 minutes and cyl head temp only got to 180 so it wasn't running hot. Is this a sign of an exhaust leak? It definitely doesn't sound like it is. I realize that decel pop can indicate a leak but since I haven't ridden yet, I don't know if it does. A leak will let in oxygen which may allow the exhaust to run hot I think. My only concern is those flange snap rings being seated in the flange groove at the port. Hard to tell or feel if they are.
 
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Old Mar 1, 2016 | 09:11 PM
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There are 2 different types of gaskets - tapered & non-tapered, did you use the correct ones?
 
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Old Mar 1, 2016 | 09:13 PM
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Non tapered new SE HD gaskets. Look identical to the V&H gaskets but these are preferred from what I hear.
 
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Old Mar 1, 2016 | 09:16 PM
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The tapered gaskets are a LOT more user friendly.
 
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Old Mar 1, 2016 | 09:21 PM
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Originally Posted by QC
The tapered gaskets are a LOT more user friendly.
But the header pipe isn't tapered like the stock pipe. The gaskets are seated properly. I just never noticed the header pipe at the port glowing red before but again, I've never had the lights out in the garage while the bike's running either.
 
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Old Mar 1, 2016 | 09:38 PM
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You used the right gasket. Take it for a few rides and retorque. Use insence a cigar or something like around the pipes while running and see if you can see any evidence of a leak.
Good luck
Bill
 
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Old Mar 1, 2016 | 09:57 PM
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Or youu can alway switch to Novello copper gaskets......
 
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Old Mar 1, 2016 | 10:10 PM
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I agree.., use a cigar to see if there is leak .., then retightenw
 
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Old Mar 1, 2016 | 11:28 PM
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Originally Posted by Vernal
You used the right gasket. Take it for a few rides and retorque. Use insence a cigar or something like around the pipes while running and see if you can see any evidence of a leak.
Good luck
Bill
Originally Posted by HOGILAC
I agree.., use a cigar to see if there is leak .., then retightenw
I was going to but then I realized I quit smoking cigars a few years ago LOL!! Thanks for the reminder.. I will do that. Still though, nobody noticed their head pipe getting red hot? Maybe the heat shields on the stockers covered the top of the pipe better...who knows ..
 
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Old Mar 2, 2016 | 12:52 PM
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Never mind guys...just did a search and found out it's normal. Never knew that. Shoulda searched before I posted this.
 
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