Topic: Original Exhaust Modification Possibilities for 550

[Vintage Esquire]

My original exhaust is in good shape on the exterior, but I can see that the baffles are a little rusty (I can only guess what they look like inside).  I am thinking about simply cutting the end caps of the pipes and replacing them with new slip on aftermarket end caps.  While it's all apart, I can replace the baffles and baffle material.  Has anyone done this to original pipes OR does anyone have any food for thought?

[Grizzly]

I have a 750K7 with the same style pipes as you. My pipes are from the states and are stamped as such. The pipes are a sealed unit so the baffles are not replaceable as on earlier models. To find out if the baffles have gone give each pipe a sharp tap with your hand, if they are knackered you will hear the baffles rattle. In use the pipes should be real quite, again if the baffles are shot you will hear them rattle, no mistake. If they sound fine just squirt some WD40 etc down the pipe and around the end and that should get rid of the rust.
As the pipes come in one piece, here in the UK at least I don't know of anyone making slip on aftermarket end caps. I know you can get aftermarket 4into1 systems. Also I believe Dave Silver here in the UK are advertising OEM pipes.
Hope this is of some use to you.

[Gordon]

If that's your bike in the picture, those aren't the original pipes.  If the baffles are rusted out and aren't designed to be replaced then you could always buy some new slip-on mufflers. 

[lone*X]

Good discussion on this just a few weeks back.  Check this thread:  http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=88931.0

Be sure to watch the video.  You will note that the baffles are not one piece as in the aftermarket and the entire muffler would need to be opened.  As always, your "pipes" may vary.

Opps, Gordon's right, not original pipes in the photo.

[akinz]

I'm looking for the same info. I have just bought a set of 4 into 4's that are in pretty good shape minus the #3 pipe starting to rust out. Looks from the outside of the pipe that they (baffles) are spot welded multiple times along the muffler.

As for these not being original, could you guys elaborate? The ones I bought look exactly the same and have stamped on them HONDA CB550K.

[Duanob]

If that's your bike in the picture, those aren't the original pipes.  If the baffles are rusted out and aren't designed to be replaced then you could always buy some new slip-on mufflers.

they look like CB550K 77 - 78 pipes to me. The number stamp will tell all.

[Gordon]

As for these not being original, could you guys elaborate? The ones I bought look exactly the same and have stamped on them HONDA CB550K.

My apologies.

You're absolutely right.  I was stuck in pre-'77 550K mode.