Exhaust Port Seals

[banquo]

Simple one: I had the dealer-fit Stage 1 when the 2003 FXST was new, so I'm not sure exactly what parts were fitted for that.
I have the headers off for a de-rusting session, and I'm not sure what type of seal is fitted between header and exhaust port.
It's a stainless steel mesh ring, which fits the description of the SE part, but I don't know what the standard seal looks like.
I can't see the dealer removing the headers just to fit these seals, so I'm guessing they are the stock part 65324-83A.
Can anyone confirm if the stock gasket/seal is a mesh item, same as the SE seal? Any asdvantage in using the SE part?

[S.T.Chapman]

yes your right with the description it is a mesh ring.
most folk reuse them and its only if its damaged or really old before you need to fit new.
the manual will say fit new but then they say that of the clamps.
se or standard I dont see there being any difference. most independants will have them as spare's primarilly as them come standard with most topend gasket kits along with inlet rubbers.
even if if it does leak then its a very simple task to change without removing the complete header just by loosening off the two nuts.

[SJC69]

The left one is the latest type which is a woven metal conical impregnated graphite type seal, the type on the right is the earlier woven metal seal.

The earlier ones were introduced on the Evolution engine then superseded by the later conical type, which are used standard on the TC88.

I doubt if the dealer changed them, the newer type do get squashed flat when used, so when removed from the port they look more like the earlier type.


The conical ones are much better at sealing so don’t be tempted to buy an aftermarket earlier type.

I have never had a problem with them, so never used or seen the SE ones and can not advise on them.


Steve

[kiwidave]

that's good info.

I used to be given the old style one all the time and never got a great seal, then the conical version was, in the Evo era, introduced as a ''Screaming Eagle'' variety and I began using that and have used it ever since

[banquo]

Thanx for that folks. The conical one is what I have. maybe the SE version has become the standard for TC88....
No, they have different part numbers, and one's £4.42 and the SE £7.00 from Guernsey.
The SE one says it's flat woven Stainless, so it doesn't compress into the header, and restrict gas flow. (they say)
I'll go with the stock ones, and save the 3 quid.
Anyone know if that's per pair, or do you have to buy them singly??

[Kiwi]

Originally Posted by kiwidave

that's good info.

I used to be given the old style one all the time and never got a great seal, then the conical version was, in the Evo era, introduced as a ''Screaming Eagle'' variety and I began using that and have used it ever since

never seen the earlier version and have only ever used the later version

unlike shovel gaskets these never give problems and are totally bulletproof

[S.T.Chapman]

Originally Posted by Kiwi

never seen the earlier version and have only ever used the later version

unlike shovel gaskets these never give problems and are totally bulletproof

ditto and same goes for the sportster.

[kiwidave]

should have said, the early style is available also......as it seems to work better with some pipes on Evos. YMMV.

[SJC69]

Originally Posted by banquo

Anyone know if that's per pair, or do you have to buy them singly??

Unfortunatley, they don't come as a pair, so that will be the price each!

The early version was used up to around the early '90s on both Evo Sportsters & 1340s.

The conical are much better thus I still have a new unused early type one!;)

The 65324-83A is Evo, Sportster & TC88 fitment, one size fits all as you say.

[banquo]

EACH!
Ah well, good advice, and thanks.
Saves me sending off for them and getting an it.....
Next time, I'll just leave them where they are, instead of knackering them getting out with pliers...
Thanx to all, as always!