Bought a set of CFRS about 5 weeks ago, I used the stock clamps on the install .After a few days I noticed the right side was slidin back ,So I retightened it very very tight.But to no avail it came loose again?even after double wrenchin it It came loose a third time,I told some buddies what was goin on and one suggested a new clamp on that side,I pulled the muffler and examined the clamp and I noticed how burnt up it looked(catalytic converter side)so I went to the HD dealership and bought another ,While installing the new clamp I noticed the left one had come loose and slid back about 3/8s .Ive never had clamps/slipons do this before and Ive had three different sets of slipons on this bike .Im scratchin my head. and before anyone says it I aint a lil guy so I can put some chit on a wrench and I turn wrenches for a livin but this has got me stumped.The only difference is I put on some V&H power duals with the CFRs,I love the look and sound of this new exhaust but this Chit is PISSIN me off.

Any ideas?

 

Couple of things I do. First, I rough up the area where they join with some sand paper. Everything grabs a little better if the surfaces are roughed up. Second, I used exhaust seam sealer. Right next to permatex at parts store. Third, I use a torque wrench. I am still using the factory clamps which have seen three different sets of slip ons.

Do as you will, but I have no issues and average about 10,000 miles a year.

 

New clamps are the answer. They stretch when properly torqued and are not designed for multiple use.

 

Agree on the new clamps & no need to "crank" these on like the Hulk. Just dab a bead of HT silicone (liquid copper) on the inner pipe/header joint & tighten to "torque speck." You might be tightening too much & compressing the pipe(s)...

 

Thats kinda what I figured joe,Damn shoulda bought two at the stealership.....

 

Torque wrench ............Uhhhhhh wutz that?

 

It's a wrench you use to put chit on...

 

You said you still have the problem of the muffler sliding back even with a new clamp. The sealer already suggested may be the answer. I've never used it so I can't vouch for that one.

I had the same problem with my right side muffler. I got some .010 shim stock, cut it to size, and placed it between the muffler and the clamp. Problem solved.

And as far as over-torquing and compressing the pipe - can't happen. The design of the clamp with the metal blocks/saddles or whatever you want to call them will not allow the clamp to over compress. You could torque it until the bolt breaks and the diameter of the clamp wouldn't change once the saddles are seated.

 

The torque on the clamps are something like 46 ft. lbs.(just off the top of my head) double check your shop manual and use that mysterious tool listed above.

 

You could get a muffler clamp for a car, something you can take off and put on over and over again.