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Muffler clamps - 1 time use?

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Old Jun 7, 2010 | 11:55 AM
  #1  
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Default Muffler clamps - 1 time use?

Been struggling for years trying to keep my slipon mufflers tight. Yes I have taken them off numerous times to access wheel and adjust belt.

After breaking the second clamp in the past year, the parts guy at the dealer informed me that the clamps should be replaced each time you remove the muffler. Geez, I did not know that.
 
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Old Jun 7, 2010 | 12:05 PM
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Yeah, HD recommends you use a new clamp every time. I'd guess because they want to sell you a clamp.

My clamps have been on and off numerous times over the years and never replaced.
 
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Old Jun 7, 2010 | 12:09 PM
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I had to replace once. I use blue loctite in between.
 
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Old Jun 7, 2010 | 12:17 PM
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We just pulled the head pipes off a 2009 SE RG to get rid of the catalytic converter this weekend. The clamps were stiff and made of some pretty thick steel. Can't see why HD would say they need to be replaced every time other than for a profit motive.
 
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Old Jun 7, 2010 | 12:19 PM
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I've loosened and tightend mine several times. I found the trick is to tighten them, get them hot and retighten. When they cool off to room temp. tighten again.
 
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Old Jun 7, 2010 | 12:29 PM
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Just re-use unless it is cracked...done this many times.
 
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Old Jun 7, 2010 | 01:05 PM
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I've reused them on 2 bikes, innumerable exhaust/wheel changes, all without any problems.
 
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Old Jun 7, 2010 | 01:09 PM
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they say not to reuse them bcause they stretch with the heat . that being said I've reused mine numerous times with no problem.
 
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Old Jun 7, 2010 | 02:38 PM
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Are there better clamps out there than the HD ones? After installation of the fuel moto headpipe, my crossover pipe connection to the headpipe is a little loose, had to put some shims in. Would like to get a good aftermarket clamp.
 
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Old Jun 7, 2010 | 02:40 PM
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Dealership mechanics frequently reuse muffler clamps. The question is do they seal properly after the initial use (this means does any exhaust gas leak or is the muffler loose). If they work OK, use them again. Otherwise, replace them.
 
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