Removing exhaust header bolts

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Sep 27, 2020 | 02:41 AM

mikeymch

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Joined: Sep 2020

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From: texas

Removing exhaust header bolts

I have a 2006 harley softail and am trying to decide what to do about my new exhaust. Should I replace myself and how likely am I to break a headbolt?

Sep 27, 2020 | 04:03 AM

vonh12

Road Warrior

Joined: Apr 2014

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From: Squamish, B.C.

It's not normally an issue. Never broke one here.

Sep 27, 2020 | 07:40 AM

MyFavRk

Seasoned HDF Member

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From: Canada Flats

If and when you decide to replace your exhaust , start spraying some penetration oil on your bolts a couple days in advance , couple times a day and before you remove them . Then follow the proper procedure for torquing the headers to avoid any " Oh Cr__ " moments .

Sep 27, 2020 | 06:06 PM

mikeymch

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From: texas

Exhaust header bolts

So after using penetrating fluid for a couple days should I run the engine to heat up bolts just before trying to remove nuts?

Sep 27, 2020 | 06:14 PM

Iceman24

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Joined: Sep 2009

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From: Eastern NE

You're in TX...bolts shouldn't be an issue to remove. Just squirt some PO on them, let soak for a bit & give it a try. Unless they're rusted on - you should be fine.

Sep 27, 2020 | 07:21 PM

mikeymch

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From: texas

Header bolts

Thank you for yalls replies. I do now confidently believe the exhaust will be real easy to remove. Upon further looking in and my bikes situation and the exhaust bolts actually look brand new. Last bikes bolts were in a bad way and just assumed these were too but bike was well protected these last 14years.

Sep 27, 2020 | 08:11 PM

MyFavRk

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From: Canada Flats

No need to heat them up , only thing I forgot to mention is after you soak them down , don't unscrew the nut in one turn , keep unscrewing and then turn it back in a bit , then unscrew some more , work that penetrating oil into the threads as you go .