Having trouble re-installing my Thunderheader 2-1 on 2000 FXDX. I replaced the stock gaskets with SE flat gaskets. When I line up both ends of the exhaust, it fits. Here's my problem! The front exhaust flange is getting stuck on the threads of the outer stud. I fit the flange around the studs without the exhaust to make sure studs weren't messed up. No problems.

Do I just pull the pipe a little to flush the flange against the head? It's not making any sense. Is it the gaskets? Has anyone else had this problem when installing this system?

Thanks,
Rob

 

When installing the exhaust you have to start with the front and work back from there. Is that what you're doing?

 

Yes, I'm lining up the front and finger tightening the nuts onto the studs. I'll continue on to line up the rear and do the same. Once I get back to the front, the flange doesn't slide flush. So I wasn't sure if the pipe just needs to be pulled a little to get the flange over the remaining threads to be flush.

 

I'm not familiar with your exhaust but on mine, and most others I've seen, the flanges do not sit flush to the exhaust port.

 

It takes some wiggling and screwing around since it's a one-piece pipe. My own experience with the SE flat gaskets and my thunderheader is that I couldn't get the pipe to seal up until I went back to the stock, tapered gaskets.

 

Hey thanks guys! I think i'm going to try the stock gaskets. Can't get any worse i guess. I'll give it a shot.

 

Think is a Good Idea what I had to do when installed my V&H 2:1 ..