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New pipes, less power

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Old Oct 12, 2009 | 03:10 PM
  #1  
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Default New pipes, less power

I have installed new aftermarket pipes (slipons) and I seem to have less power. I had SE pipes on it that were installed back in '01. I have not dyno'd it, but I notice less power in 5th gear at 45 mph. I seem to be having to down shift more often. I notice a little more gurgle/pop when decelerating. I have tightened up the exhaust flange bolts, and as tight as the right slipon was when installed, I am sure I don't have any leaks. Orignally, the manufacture of the pipes said I would not need to do a stage one kit which also requires a HD download or PCM modification module. I really did not plan on shelling out another $300 to $600 after having to buy pipes. Everything you read says you get more power if you can move more air, but I say there is an important balance between "air flow in/out" and back pressure or the lack thereof. Is there a cheaper fix?
 
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Old Oct 12, 2009 | 03:20 PM
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I would have to say no. Freer flowing exhaust coupled with freer flowing intake makes a big difference but not without remapping the fuel injection program to match. Slip-ons alone are mostly good for noise.
 
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Old Oct 12, 2009 | 03:30 PM
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look at a vance and hines fuel pack. easy to program without a computer or dyno. less than 250 bucks and will make the motor run better and cooler. or just put your old pipes back on.
 
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Old Oct 12, 2009 | 03:31 PM
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You need more air coming in before the pipes will help. Try disconnecting the battery at bothe terminals for 2 minutes, then hook them back up again. You may be surprised how much better it runs.But, you need the stage one breather.
 
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Old Oct 12, 2009 | 04:18 PM
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Originally Posted by k_bob
I have installed new aftermarket pipes (slipons) and I seem to have less power. I had SE pipes on it that were installed back in '01. I have not dyno'd it, but I notice less power in 5th gear at 45 mph. I seem to be having to down shift more often. I notice a little more gurgle/pop when decelerating. I have tightened up the exhaust flange bolts, and as tight as the right slipon was when installed, I am sure I don't have any leaks. Orignally, the manufacture of the pipes said I would not need to do a stage one kit which also requires a HD download or PCM modification module. I really did not plan on shelling out another $300 to $600 after having to buy pipes. Everything you read says you get more power if you can move more air, but I say there is an important balance between "air flow in/out" and back pressure or the lack thereof. Is there a cheaper fix?
Bob,

From what you've wrote it seems that you have simply installed a slip on exhast system to your bike. You will not move any more air than before without taking in more air.
If you're looking for a power increase, you will have to add a free flowing intake. If you're taking in more air you will need more fuel.

I added Monster ovals to my 08 Street Glide without any additional modifications. I did it for looks and sound. Does my bike make less power?
I don't know, it was a slow bike from the begining.
 
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Old Oct 12, 2009 | 07:00 PM
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Originally Posted by k_bob
I have installed new aftermarket pipes (slipons) and I seem to have less power. I had SE pipes on it that were installed back in '01. I have not dyno'd it, but I notice less power in 5th gear at 45 mph. I seem to be having to down shift more often. I notice a little more gurgle/pop when decelerating. I have tightened up the exhaust flange bolts, and as tight as the right slipon was when installed, I am sure I don't have any leaks. Orignally, the manufacture of the pipes said I would not need to do a stage one kit which also requires a HD download or PCM modification module. I really did not plan on shelling out another $300 to $600 after having to buy pipes. Everything you read says you get more power if you can move more air, but I say there is an important balance between "air flow in/out" and back pressure or the lack thereof. Is there a cheaper fix?
I put on Dresser Duals and Monster Ovals and have not seen a drop in power. I did not reflash or use any tuner and my MPG picked up by 4 mpg. Seat of the pants feels stronger to. You may have expected too much from just adding slip ons or you are dropping out of the power band. For me anything under 2200 rpm lugs the engine when in 5th and 6th gear.
 
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Old Oct 12, 2009 | 07:30 PM
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Since you said you had SE pipes put on in 01 i'll assume you've got a tc88. 5th gear when you hit 45mph is way too soon. i know it says that in the manual but you should try and keep your rpms above 2k at all times (other than 1st) to ensure our not lugging your engine. with my stage 1 tc88 i shift into 5th at 2800 rpms or around 60-65.

your horsepower is up near 3000 rpms.
 
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Old Oct 12, 2009 | 07:48 PM
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mine builds most tq at 3700rpms and hp at 5500rpms
 
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Old Oct 12, 2009 | 07:48 PM
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Old Oct 12, 2009 | 08:35 PM
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I installed Rineharts and an S&S ac on my '08 and noticed a seat of the pants difference of more power. I plan to eventually add a Power Commander but I have never had any popping.
 
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