How to Install Vance and Hines Straight Shots

I just got my new Vance & Hines Straightshots HS pipes in the mail. I went with the full set, rather than slip-ons. I opened the box, and was surprised at how many pieces there are. I guess I thought "full set", meant that there would only be two pieces (one for each pipe).

Anyway, I could use some direction on how to remove the old exhaust, and install the new one.

I have an '05 1200c.

Thanks!

Quote:

Originally Posted by pquirk

If you follow the V&H instructions EXACTLY you will have no problem. They even tell you which nuts to tighten in which order. The instructions are really very good. As far as taking the old stuff off, that's simple. Just break out the ratchet and start taking off the stuff that holds the system on. You don't have to take the muffs off the headers since you'll have new headers. The only thing to be careful of is taking the circlips off the old pipes. Use a circlip pliers so you don't bend them you'll be reusing them on the V&H pipes. TAKE YOUR TIME and all will go smoothly.

Great advice. Thank you very much. By the way, ya know that cross-over pipe that sits down below the exhaust on '04+ models? Does that come off? I know the '03 and older bikes have that cross-over pipe up top, and a lot of the guys on this forum go with the full set so that they can get rid of that cross-over pipe.

Thanks

Quote:

Originally Posted by SoCal-Cruisin

If the muffler doesn't slip into the header pipe like it should you may need to file the edge of the muffler to taper it just a wee bit. The distance between the heat shield and mufflers on mine was about 1/2" before I called V & H and they told me what to do. He told me that during the chroming process they sometimes get a small ridge at the edge of the pipe. Now I am much happier with the fit.
-W.

Thanks for the heads up. Will I know fairly quickly if I'll need to file it down, or was it after you got everything installed, and something didn't sound right when you started the bike up?

Quote:

Originally Posted by MisterB

Great advice. Thank you very much. By the way, ya know that cross-over pipe that sits down below the exhaust on '04+ models? Does that come off? I know the '03 and older bikes have that cross-over pipe up top, and a lot of the guys on this forum go with the full set so that they can get rid of that cross-over pipe.

Thanks

The x-over isn't used on the V&H, you now have a true 2-2 system.

MisterB the full exhaust set has a new mounting bracket that replaces the crossover pipe. So that goes too. Another thing to be aware of is the exhaust gaskets, if you are careful you should be able to reuse the ones you have. If not your dealer should have the SE type for about $8. The whole project shouldn't take more than a hour to an hour and a half to complete. Follow V&H directions and you should have no problem, I didn't. Everything fit like a glove on my set, they are a little close up near the forward controls but not to worry. Don't forget to clean the pipes up before you start the bike some of the oils and greases can leave stains when they get hot.

Hay how can you use the "Chief Know It All" thing if you have to ask how to install these pipes? LOL

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jimbos883

Hay how can you use the "Chief Know It All" thing if you have to ask how to install these pipes? LOL

Well, that "Chief know it all" thing was automatically put there when my membership expired. Prior to that, it said "XL RUB", if that gives you any indication...

Sounds like I need to renew my membership.

Quote:

Originally Posted by MisterB

Thanks for the heads up. Will I know fairly quickly if I'll need to file it down, or was it after you got everything installed, and something didn't sound right when you started the bike up?

Yeah, you'll know as soon as you try and slip the muffler into the head pipe and it will not go in far enough for the muffler and heat shield to butt up to one another with virtually no seam.
-W

Thanks for all the help, guys. I installed the pipes tonight. I can now see why the dealer wanted $140 for labor. It took me quite a while, and was a pita! One of the bolts on the bottom of the cross-over pipe wouldn't budge, and so I had to finally take the grinder out and cut it off. Other than that, it was just time consuming and tedious. Lots of tight places to fit bolts, and lots of shiny chrome to try to keep from scratching.

It was midnight by the time I finished, so I didn't dare start it up and go for a spin, for fear of the neighbor's wrath. I'll try it out tomorrow, and report back.

When all is said and done, it was worth the sweat. These pipes really look nice. The chrome is amazing, and it felt great to get rid of the dorky stock cross-over pipe. Now I've got a "real" 2 out exhaust system.

Bayldon Grandeon69

How to Install Vance and Hines Straight Shots

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