Cracked header pipe on fatcat
#1
01-30-2018, 04:58 AM
Cracked header pipe on fatcat
I've experienced my first problem with my fatcat. I recently realized I have an exhaust leak and after inspecting the exhaust on the bike, found a decent size crack on the rear cylinder header pipe. It's near the o2 bung and of course I'm just out of my 1 year warranty.
I plan on just welding the crack, but was curious what you guys think caused this? My first thought would be heat because the rear cylinder gets hotter and since I still don't have money for a dyno tune, I know I'm running lean.
Ill lk try to post a pic after work
I plan on just welding the crack, but was curious what you guys think caused this? My first thought would be heat because the rear cylinder gets hotter and since I still don't have money for a dyno tune, I know I'm running lean.
Ill lk try to post a pic after work
#3
01-30-2018, 07:59 AM
#4
01-30-2018, 09:57 AM
Road Captain
Did you install the exhaust yourself, or have a shop do it? Typically cracks are caused by a misalignment somewhere when mounting the exhaust. Then down the road sometime, the stress creates a crack. Like some bolts and nuts being torqued down more than others. Brackets not lined up properly to the pipes before installed on the bike. Things of that nature. Might not be the cause in your situation but it common.
#5
01-30-2018, 10:05 AM
Seasoned HDF Member
Heat and vibration are a welds worse enemy add to that any imperfection in the weld and that gets brought to the forefront quickly. On top of that like the other poster stated any extra stress added from not being installed right. Before you weld it drill out each end of the crack with a small drill bit.
#6
01-30-2018, 10:18 AM
Did you install the exhaust yourself, or have a shop do it? Typically cracks are caused by a misalignment somewhere when mounting the exhaust. Then down the road sometime, the stress creates a crack. Like some bolts and nuts being torqued down more than others. Brackets not lined up properly to the pipes before installed on the bike. Things of that nature. Might not be the cause in your situation but it common.
I installed the exhaust. With my mechanical background, I wouldn't THINK I misaligned it, but I guess anything is possible.
#7
01-30-2018, 07:32 PM
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#8
01-30-2018, 07:41 PM
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#10
01-31-2018, 03:17 AM
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