Re-using muffler clamps or use new ones?
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 2,398
Likes: 34
From: Newport news, Virginia
I would only reuse them 5 times and replace them. I had a muffler that kept on backing itself off the head pipe even after torquing them to spec. I replaced the clamp and had no more problems. Be careful though...I was installing a new, out of the bag H-D OEM clamp using a graduated torquing technique and had a bolt snap at 40 ft/lbs. I was on the up stroke when it snapped and almost took out my gas tank with the torque wrench.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 38,623
Likes: 6,441
From: Honah Lee
Band type
I assume you have the band type with the I-bolt. As long as they are not rusty and still have a way to go after they snug, they should be OK. Harley says one time but thats silly for this if they look OK. Remember they only need to be a little more then snug. The bolts in the sides hold the mufflers on. Its easy to over tighten them and you will know it because the mufflers will not want to slide off. I use C5-A copper based anti-seize on the joint to seal (takes 1800F). Done correctly, and the mufflers will slide right off. I assume your SE's have side bolts
Last edited by Jackie Paper; Nov 29, 2010 at 11:31 AM.
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Elite HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 3,900
Likes: 4
From: way down upon the Suwannee River
When I took off the mufflers the first time I put high temp never sieze on the threads and have had them off 6 times using the original clamps and no problem. But if you have lots of money or feel the obligation to help Harley out, put new ones on every time.