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I have ordered and received my V&H True Duals (Eastern Performance) and am trying to gather the needed info and TOOLS to do the install job properly. I have read the installation instructions which appeared fairly easy. I already know I will have trouble getting one of the mufflers off (I "assisted" it in a bit after the dealer installed them because they wern't even).
What specific tools and supplies (never seize/lock-tite) will I need? deep sockets? What sizes? Extensions? I have a decent supply of hand tools and sockets, but nothing fancy.
(Double post in tech forum because the traffic there seems a little light.)
I have found that box end wrenches and shallow sockets work best. take the heat shields off first. Then warm up the pipes. shut the engine off and then spray clamps and slip-joints with WD. let cool until you can handle and start disassembly. be sure to have new header gaskets. 1/2 and 9/16, flat blade screw driver.
I have a big post on the install...long time ago...used a sawzall to get em off...BUT if you'll start at the back and take it apart as you go forward you wont have many probs...dont loosen things, just take off the slip ons, then the heat shields, then each slip joint going forward, then the manifold bolts, it'll be much easier....i also prefit the v&h shields before installation and clocked the clamps out of site...use coppergasket on the slipon and crank its *** for no leaks...i'd reuse the stock gasket for a no leak installation...so a search, my posts got pics
Well, today was the day for the V&H Dresser Dual install. All went smooth, except the V&H pipe clamp would not fit through the bracket adjacent to the transmission cover. Used the original which was fine. Used Screamin' Eagle gaskets per V&H instructions. Used the current mufflers (RollingThunderPipes.com) which stilllook great(13,900 miles) and sound pretty good. They look alot like "Porkers". Wentfor a 150 mile ride out to the coast and back. Here's the report.
1. No evident loss of low end torque. It may be there, but I don't feel it, which is all that matters.
2. Throttle response "feels" better above 2600 RPM or so. Maybe a couple more ponies? Idon'tknow,but the response is more "crisp".
3. Sounds better. It is even a little louder, which I did not expect or desire. The tone is a little deeper and the "stereo" effect is more pleasing to the ear.
4. An unexpected, and unexplained side effect. It runs cooler. Substantially. At least 10 degrees, which is conservative. Ran about 200 degrees for most of the day, where it would typically be pushing almost 220. That alone is worth the upgrade.
Congrads on the install Rdam.
Mine are at home setting in theshop waiting for me to return back to the good old USA at the end of the month. can't wait to get them on. also changing out the Cam and Tranny cover bolts for polished SS ones while I have the pipes off.
Well i got mine installed tonight. Really had no problems. Had to reuse the original clamp for right side at transmission like stated above. I love the looks without the crossover. Only bad part was the clamps, as I thghtened each one I heard what I was sure was Bounty Hunter laughing! But I just could not afford the T-Rex system at this time. Maybe next time Bounty! To cold out tonight to ride (28 deg.) Suposed to be warmer tomorrow. If it does not rain I will test it out.
I was able to install the clamp through the transmission bracket on mine, I must be special I did not go with the SE exhaust gaskets because I felt I could get a better seal with the stock type. I also found that the bracket on the starter needed a little shaving for mine to fit. I have to check my header nuts every so often because I find them loosening up. Since they are off now for the 95" that I'm doing I am going to replace them with stainless steel free spinning lock nuts to keep them from unloosening again.
I installed V & H True Duals on my 01 Ultra in Dec. and so far with no regrets...like the look and sound. Using SE mufflers with turn tips. Used the stock clamps for the trans mount and for the mufflers.
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