Topic: any header install tips?

[Rocking-M]

Anyone want to help me dodge any pitfalls with the kerker install? Please jump in!

[Jerry Rxman Griffin aka MuthaF'er]

Decide where you want your rear mount to go. I used the included bracket. I cut it, bent it, drilled it and attached it to the back side of the rear foot rest rather than up to the top shock mount.

Also, don't forget to check/rejet the carbs before you blue those gorgeous new chrome Kerkers!!   

Other than that just install those bad boys using new copper washers.

[merc2dogs]

and use anti-sieze anywhere you think you need it.

Ken.

[LoopsAndLogic]

Sorry to butt in, but is it always necessary to replace the copper seals every time you take the headers off??

Thanks

LL

[KB02]

I once had a mechanic tell me that the copper washers (gaskets) are usually good for two or three fitting before that are totally flat and worthless. Basically, they are hollow and as you tighten the header down they squish to meet the header and make the seal. If they are squished all the way, throw them out and get new ones.

... At least that what he said...

[LoopsAndLogic]

Makes sense now

One last question. How would I tell if I have an exhaust leak there?? I don't feal any air nor do I see any soot.

I've had the headers off 2 times already.

 Lets hope it's not one of those discontinued parts

Thank you

LL

[KB02]

Air and soot should be the main indicators. The other option is to squirt water on the connection point (while the engine is still cold enough not to evaporate it on contact) and look for bubbles.

[Rocking-M]

Thanks Fellows, I'll mod the rear bracket soon but wanted to hear it run!
Getting those pipes in the exhaust holes from the heads was a bit of a pain.
Took it real slow so I didn't strip any studs. Rubber hammer is the ticket.

The baffle that Kerkers have to come with now really are to quite.
I don't even think a rejet is needed with these baffles.
I think I'll get the 1 1/2 race baffle for when I really want to hear
it or just jerk the current baffle out and let it roar

I'll post pictures soon!

[LoopsAndLogic]

You still would want to do a plug chop!!!

Even though it may not sound loud and less restrictive doesn't mean it isn't.

I learned the hard way when I installed a quite superbike pipe on my CB just for fun. Looked at the plugs a little later on, and they were Grey (lean).

Best to be safe and do a plug chop.

Thanks for the help and best of luck to you

LL

[jrrobertsjr]

Some of the old school, hard core guys have said that you can boil those header gaskets.

If they are sealed, the air will expand on the inside and return them to a useable donut.

Never tried it but maybe someone has a few used ones laying around and could give it a shot.

[MRieck]

 Lets hope it's not one of those discontinued parts

Thank you

LL

There are plenty.

[ofreen]

Some of the old school, hard core guys have said that you can boil those header gaskets.

If they are sealed, the air will expand on the inside and return them to a useable donut.

Never tried it but maybe someone has a few used ones laying around and could give it a shot.

Naw, they are not airtight.  Plus, when installed, they get squashed flatter than Keira Knightley's chest.  You can reuse them, but odds are good they will start leaking.  New ones don't cost that much.  You will need to retorque the exhaust after the first run, then check it again after a few hundred miles.

[jtb]

Naw, they are not airtight.  Plus, when installed, they get squashed flatter than Keira Knightley's chest.  You can reuse them, but odds are good they will start leaking.  New ones don't cost that much.  You will need to retorque the exhaust after the first run, then check it again after a few hundred miles.

Who the Hell is Keira Knightley?

[jtb]

Rocking-M,  how about a sound file along with the pictures.  I need something to drown out the engine noise 

[ofreen]

Who the Hell is Keira Knightley?

A semi-famous anorexic Hollywood actress.

[Rocking-M]

Rocking-M,  how about a sound file along with the pictures.  I need something to drown out the engine noise 

Hey JTB, with the stock kerker baffle I could hear the engine noise real good
Without it I can drown out a harley with loud pipes

I had doctored the stock f muffler and it was louder than the stock kerker baffled system.
Sounded pretty good actually but the pipes had been abused over the years and I've wanted a
kerker since the 70's. The kerker has got to weigh at least 20 lbs. less than the stock Honda system.