Topic: exhaust question

[pelicanwheel]

Since I got such great responses to my side cover stripping question, I've got to be greedy and ask about other stuff. What a great forum.  Thanks everyone.

I have a decent set of original pipes that as far as I remember (they are in storage...too lazy to get them down before posting this) there are no clear holes in them as viewed from the outside (I'm too big to crawl inside to look :-)  ).  Assuming that they are in pretty decent shape, structural wise, is there any major downsides to having them replated?  They are not "pretty enough" for the level of restoration I'm doing.  My local plater here in the Phoenix area (Kerr Plateting - off of 43 Ave) has a set up just for exhuast pipes, and has agreed to do the four of them for $50.00 each (quantity discount because there are four of them and I've already taken out a morgage to pay for the other stuff he's plated for me).  I know the newer chrome these days aren't as good as yesteryears, but I really want good looking pipes without paying the $1000.00 for new ones off ebay.

I also have a spare set that I purchased off ebay for about $150.00 that are straight, but has a couple rust holes.  If the plating is ok to do as asked above, is it also viable to repair the second set of pipes (by welding in new metal after stripping the chrome then replating)?

Thanks everyone,

Pelican

[GroovieGhoulie]

Depends on the soundness of the metal.  To thin/eaten and the chroming process will destroy it.

I'd say chrome 'em.  Most likely you're on a budget and aren't doing a Vic World restoration, so don't worry about brand new pipes. Also, modern chrome can be VERY good, it just depends on who does it and how much time and care they take.  You get what you pay for generally.

I'm wrestling with similar issues: rechroming my 400 exhaust.  I'm going to look into it as I have some rust on the backside of the header pipes and around the silencer's drain hole.

[heffay]

you say your rechrome guy has worked for you in the past?  did you like his work?  if so, then rechrome the little suckers (i guess they would be blowers  ) 

also, i'd go with the ones that have the least amount of rust... sounds like those would be the ones you have to get off that lazy a$$ and dig out... jus kidding... kindof

 


heffay

[cb(r)]

I prefer to see the chrome but you might want to check about getting the ceramic coated?  If that is even an option

[grumburg]

Do not, I repeat, do not mess with those old pipes! Send them to me immediately before they cause you any heartache and spend the $1000 for new ones.

[pelicanwheel]

Grumburg -

I'm not sure if your joking or serious.  Are you suggesting that restoration of the pipes is like a can of worms?  If so, how?

Thanks!

Pelican

[heffay]

he wants your pipes and he obviously doesn't know how to use smileys!   

hey grum 

[grumburg]

Though I would give it a shot. Honda chrome was never that great to begin with. These bikes were built to a price point, and Honda put most of the money in the drive train.   

[bwaller]

I had a local guy here ask 175.00 each to rechrome my 341 pipes. They are perfect except the chrome is starting to look crappy. So if you're happy with the guys work, I agree with the rest.... go for it. And what's this shops address??

[oldbiker]

Remember that if there are rust holes (even small ones) the metal is getting pretty thin elsewhere as well so welding  up is a major job which might not give a satisfactory result. I don't want to put you off, but be sure before committing yourself to any expense.

[pelicanwheel]

Grumburg -

Their address is 4737 N. 43rd Ave. Phoenix, Az 85031 

I'm going in on Monday to drop off the pipes, so hold off calling before then so that I can tell them I posted their info on the board and get them to honor their price to everyone (they may have given me that price because of my prior dealings).

Pelican