I was just wondering how many of you guys are not using gaskets on the head pipes? When I installed my duals the darn gaskets wouldnt fit so I left them out...havent had any leaks.

 

I think you better put them in. Did you remove the old gaskets? The old ones usually need to be pried out with a screw driver or knife. If you left the old ones in then that is why the new ones would not fit.

 

I noticed the same thing on my last bike, almost put it together thinking they didn't fit. The old gaskets hide very well when crushed. When pulled you'll notice a nice big void where the new ones will go. The heat leaking out will most likely scorch your heat shields over time.

 

Not to mention the havoc that will happen if you've got 02 sensors.

 

Use a dental pick to pull out the old ones.

 

I didnt remove any gaskets....I should be ok then I think....when I removed the stock head pipes I didnt see anything in there... the new head pipes fit pretty snug...so im sure the original gaskets are still in there

 

I think you are fine. I installed V&H True Duals last year on my 08 Ultra. I reused the stock gaskets and left them in place since they were fine. Good luck.

 

I don't know what kind of bike you have but if it was my bike I would pull the pipes and the old gaskets and put in new gaskets. Not an expensive or difficult procedure but if I am going to work on my own bike, I want it done right. Jus' sayin'.

 

Its a good way to burn an exhaust valve. Go back and put them in. Cold air touching those hot valves will warp them and eventually burn them.

 

Nevermind you didn't remove the old ones. 50/50 if you get a leak or not.