Exhaust Header Pipe Replacement Tips

Picked up some great replacements for my rusty headers. The old ones came out fairly easily once loosened up but the replacements are tight to get in and I'm worried about aligning them once on the bike. Any tips?

 

Make sure all of the old gaskets are out before putting the new gaskets in. Old gaskets look just like the pipes, and can be easily overlooked.

Clean the mating parts with steel wool or some 400 grit wet-and-dry until they are smooth. Make sure that the clamps are all as loose as possible.
Don't tighten anything up until it's all in place; just leave it barely finger-tight as you work. Start with the headers and work backwards.

 

Are you referring to the ones in the collector? Honestly I was trying to reuse those as my mufflers are not great but good enough for now. I would like to ride this thing soon.

Assuming I have to replace, I'm guessing I need to remove the old ones, expand the clamping area on the collector, and fit the new gaskets onto the pipes before fitting into the collector?

 

Did you ever get an answer on this? I'm prepping for a similar project and trying to get ducks in a row. Also, where in the heck did you find pipes that clean and how much did you spend on them if you don't mind me asking?

 

Yes there are gaskets in there. I was able to scuff mine up and reuse them. No leaks that I can feel/hear. Lots of patience waiting for some to pop up. $20/piece. NOS ones pop up on eBay and go for $100 - $200 each if you want new. I wasn't going to spend that much on something that will be ridden frequently and in the rain.

 

i think there's numbers on the pipes that's not real obvious, get them in the right order.
and make sure you do this

 

Yup they are numbered, I can't recall where they are at though!

 

I think they're near the top of the header, on the engine side of the pipe.

 

i was thinking they were down by the collector but wherever they are i'm just glad to know i'm not completely senile