...stop...stop...that killed me.

 

No really, I don't know what that means. lol

 

1 Dealership told me they'd need to keep the bike 1-2 weeks, have their master tech take it to a machinist, and all without looking at it. The other dealer (highly recommended tech's) said "no stripped threads, you'll have it back in 2 days, we'll just re-install the pipes, replace the gaskets to be safe, and torque it all down for you"

 

I'm not a big fan of the stock exhaust studs. They can be easily removed with vicegrips. Replace the studs with stainless allen bolts long enough to bottom in the holes and still leave an inch or more outside the head. Before inserting through the exhaust flange, thread a flange nut all the way to the head of the bolt. Insert the bolt into the head until it bottoms. Tighten the exhaust flange evenly and securely by tightening each of the nuts. This gives a super secure seal with an Evo or TC and was crucial in the Shovelhead days.

 

Interesting - I did ask them to replace all the stock studs which they're doing, but they won't go any further than that, (your suggestions). I'll just be happy to have my ride back today for a hot and steamy weekend in chicago with the constant threat of T-storms, tornados, hail, and whatever else!!