I've seen numerous references to the no-longer-available SE II slip-ons being better than those currently offered by HD, but I've not really been able to pin down why.

Better flow/performance?

Better sound?

More sound?

Better build quality?

I want better flow without a big increase in decibels, and SE II's have been recommended to me, but tracking down a pair is certainly harder than just ordering a new set from the dealer.

 

more racket, less tree-hugging. rich, meaty sound.

tons n ebay and craigslist

 

The major difference is the old SEII sounded better, (a bit louder & deeper). EPA regulations are to blame.

 

In order to continue selling "Screamin' Eagle" performance exhaust, Harley actually made a deal with the EPA to make the II's more compliant. (We received a memo direct from Harley to our Dealership back in ....2007 maybe?)

 

The Screamin' Eagle ll mufflers were never meant to meet any certifications for the EPA.
I just picked up a set on my local craigslist , #8042404 side slash (baloney cut).
These say on the bottom , For off road use only.
The later model mufflers like these
http://www.harley-davidson.com/store...-06-8050307--1
are 50 state legal , EPA stamped because they are.
The SEll mufflers are louder , flow better , maybe don't have the spark arresting qualities the new ones have.
They certainly do have a certain "character" to them and are about as loud as I would ever want to run in my locale.
The part number above fits 2004-2013 sportsters and include the cross over port nipples , just bolt em on.
I don't think the build quality is different between them , they're not light weight or cheap feeling for sure.
Like you I was curious , so I watched the ads and thought I'd try a set and see what the fuss was about.
My next door neighbor said they sounded OK , so that's the first hurdle.
They do breath a bunch better than stock and are louder for sure.....
Mick

 

I love mine.

 

I modified a set of screaming eagle II's off a buddies 2003 for my 2014 and I loved the aggressive tone of them. Then I removed the baffles and added a set of thunder torque inserts (W258) to them and their tone became deeper. I absolutely love these pipes.

 

Sorry off topic....the W258 barely fit in the SEIIs which I believe are 3" OD. Did you lean the TTIs forward to provide a little more space around the cone?

Alienbogey - I sent you a PM on my SEIIs.

 

SEII's may be better, but I love my SE SP slipons....just the right mix of better sound and better performance.


Just my .02

 

I did rotate the W258's slightly to get the mufflers a little louder but they actually fit pretty good straight in the pipes, I just needed a little louder to keep the wife happy (bless her for wanting my bike louder!).