Eric_The_Jew

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posted April 05, 2005 11:16 AM
Akrapovic Install (V. Hill?)
Hey guys....finally got the pipe....have a few questions before I start the installation.
1. The header pipes came shipped assembled with the collector and springs all in place. Is it best to mount the entire header assembly to the engine as one unit (e.g. already pre-assembled)? Or is it better to take off the collector, install the individual pipes onto the cylinder head, and then install the collector last?
2. What is the best tool/method to use to hook up all of those springs?
3. Vince Hill.....I seem to recall you (I believe it was you) saying that the spigot flanges for the Akra have to be oriented a certain way. Something regarding the spring holes being toward the top. Or did I dream this?
Thanks!!
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VincentHill

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posted April 05, 2005 01:10 PM
Yes, I made the mistake of mounting the brackets with the Holes on top. They belong on the Bottom
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EastBayDave

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posted April 06, 2005 06:04 AM
To answer the Q's:
1) I'd put the pipes in loosely individually. I just like to do it that way as I like to get them in totally "flush" w/the head & exhaust gasket BEFORE mounting into the collector (to help prevent exhaust leaks- to crush the exhaust gasket carefully/equally when tightening them up once mounted into the collector.) Just be sure to keep orientation (1,2,3,4) so you don't get them mixed. I used a El-Marko pen & numbered them to be sure. You may have to loosen one or two up a bit to get them into the collector; I use WD40 in the collector to help them slip right in. It will burn off quick...a little smoke first time you start it is to be expected.
2) I have a Snap-On spring hook tool that works great; most auto part stores carry these in various brands. You can do it will needle-nose, but it's easier w/the right tool. Before I had one I even made a "tool" out of thick coat-hanger. It worked but was crude as hell...+ free. LOL
3) Yep, did the same thing. Had to reverse them....:P
Additionally, you don't have to remove the radiator to install but it's a hella lot easier. I just loosened it up & took out the mounting bolts. I pushed it forward as far as it would go & that gave me enough room to mount the pipe. A "flex-socket" that will tighten bolts at an angle of the right size helps too if you got one. I forget the size...
Good luck!
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zx12adam

Member
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posted April 06, 2005 09:09 PM
Like Dave said, it's worth buying a spring hook tool from NAPA. I used a pair of needle nose pliers installing a Yosh system to my 954 and one of the buggers slipped out at full extension just before I hooked it together. That little fucker took off, I haven't seen that godamn spring since last July, probably wedged in the neighbors fucking lawnmower.
Oh, and when it comes down to torquing any bolts on any bike, a wise man once told me to just round it off then back it out half a turn. (I am not held liable for any of my comments... ever)
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Eric_The_Jew

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posted April 07, 2005 08:42 AM
Thanks for the help guys. Got the exhaust put on yesterday, and it was much easier than I expected. I didn't remove the radiator, and took your advice and just removed the mounting bolts. A pair of needle nose worked just fine for the springs.
Everything seems fine except for the fact I can feel a little exhaust leaking where the header balance tubes join. I guess that won't hurt anything though.
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VincentHill

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posted April 07, 2005 09:44 AM
Must not have used the Copper High Temp Silicone
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Eric_The_Jew

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posted April 07, 2005 10:03 AM
quote: Must not have used the Copper High Temp Silicone
Well, I was going to do that to remedy the problem, but after reading where people said the stuff turns to powder once it heats up, I figured that wouldn't make for very much of a seal.
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VincentHill

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posted April 07, 2005 01:09 PM
Correct it does turn to powder after a few heat cycles. The reason we all know is it is still in the joint between the Pipes also allowing them to easily ER to be separated. Powder takes up space and provides a seal. Look in the kitchen and see how much room the Flower can takes up. Sealing, add a little water and you put in the oven and it will get very hard.
USE IT but do not stand behind the bike until it is cured (Do not ask me how I know this either
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TurboBlew

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posted April 07, 2005 01:12 PM
I dont understand how you can properly install a pipe without removing the radiator?????
There are 3 bolts and 2 wiring harness' holding the radiator... you could have had it off inside of 10mins. Guess you'll learn soon enough...lol
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VincentHill

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posted April 07, 2005 01:53 PM
quote: I dont understand how you can properly install a pipe without removing the radiator?????
There are 3 bolts and 2 wiring harness' holding the radiator... you could have had it off inside of 10mins. Guess you'll learn soon enough...lol
You forgot to add the Radiator Hoses (2 large and 2 small) and the clamps and the Coolant out and back in . Did I forget the Horns?
I also take the radiator off. Never tried with it on because there was too much I could miss and I needed to replace the fan blades!
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zx12adam

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posted April 07, 2005 03:34 PM
I didn't pull the rad when I installed my full Muzzy, it was easy and quick.
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Eric_The_Jew

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posted April 07, 2005 08:18 PM
quote: I dont understand how you can properly install a pipe without removing the radiator?????
Quite easily, actually. I mounted only the spigots first, which leaves plenty of room to make sure they're fully seated and get a 1/4" drive ratchet in there to tighten the nuts. With the mount bolts all buttoned up, all you have to do is slide each individual primary tube in the respective spigot, hook up the springs, and voila. Plenty of room to work with. It would be a lesson in redundancy to drain the radiator, pull all the hoses, and yank the rad without needing too now, wouldn't it?
And did I mention, not one bent fin?
Vince, now i'm wishing i'd have taken the time to drive to Auto Zone to pick up the Permatex! Live and learn....guess I should have listened to the old man
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Hells Dark Lord

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posted April 08, 2005 03:46 AM
TurboBlewMe just like to make sure he covers all the bases, just like when he is slobbing someones knob, wants to take his time and make sure he gets it right, cant hold that against him......lmfao
Now sit down and shut up bitch, and let the big boys talk.......hahahahahahh
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