Hi, I got a 2nd hand 09 nightster and have just put the stock pipes back on for change of ownership inspection. I haven't done up the 2 header pipe flange nuts very tight as I'm still waiting for service manual to arrive in the mail. I was worried about overtightening them so erred on the side of caution.
I've got a problem as there's black smoke leaking from both pipes at the head. I'm not sure if:
a. I just need to tighten more (anyone got torque specs?) or
b. The original pipes had a different gasket (I'm re-using the one's that the RSD pipes were using, they are like a circlip)
c. Maybe a and b or something else...
Any help much appreciated.
Rowan
A pic of stock 2009 Nightster exhaust system....
Dont know the torque for your exhaust flange nuts,, but my 2009 tourer is approx 115 inch/pounds...THATS INCH / POUNDS .... Your bike should be similar ,,,,
If you have the flange nuts snug , (and a bit more),, and you still getting a major leak ,, it is either , 1. header pipe is not installed in the port properly ... 2. Retaining ring ,(22), is not properly seated in flange, (18).. 3. Gaskets need replacing ....
Your aftermarket headers would have deformed the gaskets to suite these pipes , and as such , installing another header pipe in those deformed gaskets, can/will be a problem.. Your bike is 8 years old, it would be a good idea to replace gaskets anyway ... Google "replacing harley exhaust gaskets" ,, as they can be a pain to install ....
As you are going to swith back to aftermarket headers after inspection, (if you install new gaskets),, all should be good ....
Pity you could'nt find a workshop that would pass your bike without changing pipes !!!!! Good luck , Cheers....
