I would rate it at about a "Twelve Pack" ... of course that's just me ... your results may vary! Actually it's not a tough job ... just take your time and use some common sense ... if you run into a problem, think it through ... you'll be fine!
Get a shop manual if you don't have one. It will reduce the difficulty level you speak of. Replace the cylinder head to head pipe gaskets. I only bought 2 of them and had to go back for another one Hell, buy 4 of them and return the ones you don't mess up. For another suggestion... Don't put the chrome on them till you ride it and make sure she don't leak. A distributor wrench works good to tighten one of the rear cylinter head nuts. Flex-sockets are your friend too!
Maybe a stupid question to the more experienced...but if a mistake is made and you cause an exhaust leak(s) or cause the exhaust gasket(s) to restrict the exhaust flow....is it easy to tell before the real damage is done?
Last edited by msmith4357@aol.com; 02-09-2012 at 06:55 PM.
I agree 1-2 take it slow and pay attention. Another tip make sure to use a ammonia glass cleaner to wipe off hand prints so you do not have discoloration.
Timely post! I just received my 2-2 Big Radius pipes and wondered about the same thing. As another source of info, I found this video on youtube, It shows a true dual install of bub headpipes and rinehart slipons.
That video is a joke and shows NOTHING about doing this install.
It's really not that hard. It's about a 3-4 as long as you have the right tools. I installed my V&H Power Duals and 4" Rineharts by myself with no lift and the bike on the kickstand. I had NEVER wrenched a single bit on a motorcycle before and I truly enjoyed the experience. Having the right tools makes all the difference. Make sure you get a set of allen and torx bits you can put on a ratchet. These will be very helpful when removing brackets and foot rests.
If you need help, post here as there are several folks always willing to lend a helping hand.
Probably a stupid question to the more experienced......but if you make a mistake and the head pipe(s) are not seated properly or you cause the exhaust gasket(s) to restrict the exhaust flow....how can you tell before you have serious problems?
Another stupid question. What are you referring to as "anti-seize"? It's been awhile but I think I always just used a little WD-40 to slip the connections together.