Installing Stock Exhaust

[davidsymons53]

What is the best (easiest) way to install a stock exhaust system on an 81sh? Should I assemble it, headers and crossover pipes or just the headers and then attach the crossover pipes after installation?

David

[CatatonicBug]

I have always had them as 2 pieces (left half and right half). I never separate the headers from the mufflers. I line up the headers with my feet under the bike, and I support the mufflers with my toes. Once I get the header nuts started, I work on the crossover connection and start the other support points. Then, I go back and tighten the header nuts and the support points. Of course, if mine looked like they would come apart without disintegrating, I might try that way too...

[davidsymons53]

Thanks Cat. I have new gaskets for the headers (at the motor). Do I need gaskets at the other connections?

David

[CatatonicBug]

There are round gaskets that go under each of the clamps. Part number 3JJ-14653-00-00. Here's a picture:

[fredintoon]

Thanks Cat. I have new gaskets for the headers (at the motor). Do I need gaskets at the other connections?

Hi David,
some have gotten away with re-using the old header gaskets and crush sleeves, others have not. Especially the crush sleeves as they tend to disintegrate when the pipes are pulled out of them.

[CatatonicBug]

Hi David,
some have gotten away with re-using the old header gaskets and crush sleeves, others have not. Especially the crush sleeves as they tend to disintegrate when the pipes are pulled out of them.

Definitely. Mine has 2 sets of used header gaskets on it. That's also the reason I don't take my exhaust apart - the gaskets would be toast.

[davidsymons53]

I purchase my xs1100sh last year for $750.00. It was kept in a heated storage facility for ten years prior to that. It was auctioned off for non-payment of the storage fees.

It is in amazing condition. However the mufflers were eaten by rust before it was placed in storage. I bought a stock exhaust system on eBay last year. It was completely disassemble for shipping. That is why I need to reassemble and install it.

David